Driving from a wheelchair has become easier than ever as the latest developments in technology and engineering, such as the integration of ramps and assistive driving systems, are helping more wheelchair users to go where they need to be. Since these upgrades and developments have made wheelchair accessible vehicles more functional and comfortable, it is expected that there will be more demand for these types of cars– in fact, the wheelchair accessible vehicle market is projected to reach a value of $12.8 billion by 2032. Due to the growing demand, accessible transportation solutions are likely to become more affordable in the coming years, and wheelchair users who love to drive will have the means to pursue a career that requires them to be on the road most of the time.
For many people whose jobs require a lot of driving, nothing beats the feeling of being behind the wheel, and that's why they chose to work jobs that would free them from the confines of an office. For wheelchair users, having a job that enables them to be out and about can be freeing as it gives a feeling of independence, satisfaction, and fulfillment. If you use a wheelchair and you love to drive, here are the best paying jobs that you need to check out.
Automotive Journalist
If you love writing car reviews, consider becoming an automotive journalist. This is a fun job for automobile enthusiasts since you could review hybrids in various vehicle types and styles at the start of the week, then move on to EVs or the latest pickup trucks the following week. This job requires you to test drive a vehicle before writing a review, so as a wheelchair user, you can create a niche in the industry by becoming an automotive journalist who mostly reviews wheelchair adapted or accessible vehicles.
According to Zip Recruiter, the average automotive journalist earns around $60,979 per year, but wages can go above the national average, depending where you work. For instance, in Nome, Alaska, the average salary is at $75,000, while working in San Francisco will allow you to earn nearly $72,000 per year.
Transportation Company Driver
Most people think that individuals who use wheelchairs can't get into driving gig platforms like Uber or Lyft. However, these companies have policies and protections in place for drivers who use wheelchairs, and they even welcome service animals to ride with drivers if they're needed. Keep in mind that as long as you meet the minimum age requirement and you're legally allowed to drive in your country, you can work as a driver for these platforms, but you also need to undergo a short training period and see to it that your vehicle meets your area's requirements.
As an alternative, you can work for a business that provides transportation options for people with disabilities. One such company is Ride Connection, an Oregon-based non-profit that provides door to door rides for the elderly and the disabled. They have volunteer and paid drivers, and they also hire drivers with disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs. Uber and Lyft drivers can make about $19 per hour, while Ride Connection drivers earn around $25 per hour.
Specialist Driving Instructor
If you've mastered the skill of driving in a wheelchair, consider helping others to learn so they can be more mobile and independent. As a specialist driving instructor, you can teach other wheelchair users how to drive a wheelchair adapted vehicle, and advise them which car makes and models are suitable for their needs. The average driving instructor earns between $33,000 to $43,000 per year, but it's possible that you can earn more since you'll be teaching members of your community with very specific and different needs and abilities.
Wheelchair users have every right to drive and pursue careers that will take them on the open road. Consider these job options if you love to drive, and enjoy the freedom and financial benefits as you cruise from one place to another.
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I'm Alice and I live with a dizzying assortment of invisible disabilities, including ADHD and fibromyalgia. I write to raise awareness and end the stigma surrounding mental and chronic illnesses of all kinds.
