Ron's POZ Blog

I have had 2 driving lessons so far, yesterday and then today (4/25) and enjoying every minute of it!

I have to re-train myself to use the hand control for the accelerator and brake for the left hand and the right is always on a rotating knob on the steering wheel which allows for nice, smooth or sharp turns. I spent the 2 hours yesterday and 2 hours today getting used to smoothly accelerating and braking. I did very little jerking either day and was so proud!

I did drive through a big park here, meandering up and down hills, learning to navigate curves and remaining in my lane. I did basic parking and reverse turns too, but no parallel parking yet – next time. Should be next week and even do a K-turn too! This third lesson will still be in the park still to make sure I have the feel of the car and practice parking more.

THEN, the instructor feels I should graduate to the country roads here with some of the lighter-traveled highways to further my re-education. He says that if I am still so comfortable and smooth after at least 2 days on the actual roads, then we will go on to city driving for a few trips and then mixing it up and as I improve then we’ll try the freeways and the more crazier traffic patterns. He wants to make sure I am very comfortable with the hand controls and drive almost without thinking about the hand controls like I used to drive with my legs and all.

I had my sister, Arlene, take me for the first lesson at the main office, but now, they will come right to the house to take me driving! VERY NICE!! Especially since getting someone to take me and be able to amuse themselves for 2 hours is far too much to expect of anyone!

The man who gives the handicap driving lessons also is a certified dealer for the converted mini-vans that I have been comparing – so he can convert any make I want – Toyota, Chevy, Pontiac, etc. Good to know! Because, as soon as I get my license back – I buy a new van!