Twin-Flip Left Foot Accelerator Pedal Adaptation

An adapted accelerator pedal can be fitted to an automatic transmission vehicle for operation by the left lower limb.

The twin-flip version consists of two accelerator pedals placed either side of the standard brake pedal.  Only one pedal can be operated at any time – as the other pedal is flipped up and out of the way, so that it can not be depressed in error. 

The twin-flip version allows for the accelerator pedal to be flipped back down in position so that the vehicle can be driven in the conventional way by a family member or mechanic, for example.

If the vehicle is fitted with floor-mounted ‘organ’ type accelerator pedals

that cannot be adapted to suit a flip up accelerator adaptation, a metal plate would need to be secured over the floor mounted pedal.  This would be to prevent accidental operation of the pedal.

What the adaptation is used for

When the right lower limb is not functional or present to operate a standard accelerator pedal, an adapted accelerator pedal can be fitted to an automatic transmission vehicle for operation by the left lower limb.

Factors to consider when considering using this adaptation

Using a left foot accelerator can be difficult to learn and become competent in.  This is particularly if the driver has many previous years of driving with a clutch pedal in a manual transmission vehicle.  It is therefore strongly recommended that a period of familiarisation is carried out with a specialist driving instructor, using a dual controlled vehicle, prior to independent driving using the left foot pedal adaptation.

Safety Considerations for other drivers of the vehicle:

It is important that a warning notice is placed in the vehicle to say that the vehicle is fitted with a left foot pedal adaptation.   This should include that caution must be taken by other drivers (for example mechanics at garages, or other family members) to check the accelerator pedal is in the ‘flipped’ back down position before attempting to drive the vehicle in the conventional way.