Interpretation ID: nht91-4.10

DATE: May 31, 1991

FROM: Elizabeth Anania

TO: Steve Kratzke

TITLE: None

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 6-24-91 from Paul Jackson Rice to Elizabeth Anania (A38; Std. 207; VSA 108(a)(2)(A))

TEXT:

I am writing at the suggestion of Mr. Tarantino of your agency, in reference to my husband, Vincent Anania. He suffered a stroke a year ago and now, after intensive therapy, is able to walk unassisted and care for himself. The only impairment he has which could be considered a handicap is some paralysis in his right arm and hand. He is anxious to complete his independence by being able to drive. Toward that end, he was evaluated by Mr. Michael Suggs of Bryant Driving School here in Raleigh, who specializes in handicapped drivers, and was judged to be qualified to drive without restrictions.

The problem is getting behind the wheel -- that is, entering the car. The seat does not go back quite far enough for his knee to clear under the steering wheel. One or two inches farther back would allow easy entry (strangely, exiting is not a problem).

Our car is a '91 Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser Station Wagon and could be slightly modified to slide back a little more, but the agency told me it was against federal law. I am hoping we can secure permission to make the change, as driving is important to him. I should add that, of course, once behind the wheel, he would return the seat to its normal position for driving.

We will appreciate your advice on this matter very much.