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We’re here to make things easy. Our FAQ section is your go-to resource for everything you need to know about joining our programs.
- You have a driver's license.
- You have been driving with hand controls for at least two years.
- You can transfer into a car without a sliding board.
- You have full triceps.
- You must be over 5’4” and have a seat width no wider than 20”.
The days vary depending on the program you are in. However, most general programs start around 7:30am and end at 5pm. You will join a novice group, so no one on the track will know much more than you. All novice drivers will have an instructor in the car during their your sessions.
The days consists of classroom and track sessions throughout the day.
A typical drive event is $50. We often get asked how much an actual day costs: around $1,000. This includes entry fees, wearables, staff, etc. To keep the program going, we kindly ask that you consider donating whatever you can to help us keep this experience accessible to everyone.
If you cancel within 5 days of the event or fail to show up, we will charge a $400 fee to cover hard costs we've incurred.
While you're always welcome to bring a group to watch, only one driver can utilize the car for that day. However, we do offer ride-along group days. We can accommodate up to 8 people to experience what it's like being on track. If you want to organize a group day, please contact us.
Performance driving is mentally and physically taxing. If you live over 2 hours away, we suggest staying in a hotel near the track the night before so you wont be exhausted during your last sessions.
We have left and right hand controls in both cars.
For the left, we use the Push Right Angle.
For right, we use the Veigel Classic II.
You can choose which one you want when you get to the track.
All cars have race seats and 6-point harnesses, velcro for leg management and an option of a steering knob or trip-pin. You can see everything here.
You always have to have on pants and long sleeves. These are track rules. If you show up with shorts or short sleeve shirt, you will not be allowed on track. No exceptions.
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1. Have a meeting with a Just Hands-er to get you qualified. We do this to make sure you are signed up for the right event based on your experience and physical function.
2. You will receive a link from us when dates go live. We send these emails out with new dates every 2 months, so if you can't make the first batch, no problem!
It's important to note that we have a long list of drivers. If you get to the website late, there is a good chance dates will be gone.
Yes. All tracks we go to have accessible bathrooms.
Yes, however that won't really matter. When you're on the track, the windows need to be opened. Track rules. There will be shade and bring some water.
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You do not. They have been driving for at least 2 years with hand controls and would not be allowed to have hand controls if they did not already go through a school to learn them. They are coming with their own knowledge and thus you don't need to know anything about them (although definitely ask. They are pretty cool!)
No. You don't instruct able-body people by saying Left foot, Right foot. You say track in, Apex, track out or using a 1 - 10 scale of pressure. You use terminology that can be applied whether you use your hands or your feet.
There are two states during an emergency. One is conscious and the other is unconscious. In the unconscious / non-responsive state, the drivers treated like an able body person that is unconscious. If they are conscious, they will give instruction as to the help they need. If you are instructing them, it would be good just to ask. "If something happens, how would you address this?" 90% of all drivers will know how to respond. However, like a body people, some might not know. We suggest mentioning: in case of fire (and ONLY fire) throw yourself out onto the ground and crawl away. As an instructor, it is not your responsibility to be a rescuer - regardless of ability.
The answer here is common sense. Anything you ask, or say, should be relevant to the conversation at hand. Ask them to explain their hand controls. Ask them what they can and cannot do physically. You already do this with able-bodied people: You're judging them on their capabilities whether you know it or not. The same goes here.Also, take their lead. There are some people in chairs who will joke about it. There others that will not. You'll figure out very quickly which one they are.
If you want to, sure. Just like you would address any other issue that a driver has. When asking about one’s disability, you are doing so with intention. Some people may have trauma related to their disability that they don’t want to disclose. Instead of asking “what happened” you can ask “so that I can better understand and give appropriate cues, how does your disability affect your body?” Imagine an able-bodied driver that is hyper-tentative? Have they been in an accident? Ask them about it so that you can understand their hesitation. There's no problem asking that. Same thing goes for someone with a disability. You're not asking because it's funny or improper. You're asking because it's appropriate to the moment.
No. Treat them like an able-bodied driver. They will get in and out of the car themselves. They will put on harnesses themselves. As far as you're concerned, they are a "normal" driver. They will be frank with you if there's something that they cannot do. We've lived our whole lives evaluating situations that do or do not work for us.
Yes! This one's simple. Safety is paramount over ALL. You would tell an able-bodied driver that's too hesitant and jamming on the brakes that they are dangerous. You would tell a driver that's too short that they can't see over the steering wheel. In all instances commentary is about safety and capability. So what you observe is what you comment on.
No! Disability is a protected class. Therefore, premiums do not change. It's actually illegal to ask.
With their hand :-) For most drivers their right hand will always be on the steering wheel. They then use their left hand to give the point by.
No. If anything that this frequently asked questions should have taught you is that we are no different than anyone else.
We have set-ups for both those with and without good finger function (aka Quad handlebar). The requirement is to be able to transfer in and out by yourself with relatively little assistance. From an SCI perspective, think C5 and up. If you believe you may be on the cusp and want to know more, email us at justhands@justhands.org
We’re still developing the program, so it’s a work in progress. However, we’ve had the privilege of learning from incredible organizations like Rocky Mountain Adaptive and Dream Adaptive, which means we’re building on a strong foundation rather than starting from scratch.
When you arrive, you’ll meet your instructor(s), who will help fit you to the mountain bike. The session will begin with learning the fundamentals of the bike, followed by applying those skills on the nearby trails.
Weekday Half-day - $50
Weekday Full-day - $75
Weekend Half-day - $60
Weekday Full-day - $85
Yes. They need to bring their own bike and safety equipment. The closest rental bike shop is Bikers Edge in Torrington. Our goal is to have bikes they can rent directly from us soon.
All riders are required to wear a helmet, and we recommend gloves, elbow pads, knee pads, and sturdy shoes. If you don’t have gear, let us know—we may have some available to borrow.
Not at all! Our program is designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders. Our instructors will tailor the session to your ability.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and any personal items you might need during the session. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes.