Product Safety

Controller Recall Puts SmartDrive Safety in the Spotlight

At a June event, United Spinal Association’s CEO was pushed off of a stage, most likely by a faulty controller for his SmartDrive power-assist device. The dramatic mishap, combined with Permobil’s recent recall of the SmartDrive’s watch-style Bluetooth controllers, led us to broader questions about the safety of the popular SmartDrive system. We dig into the details of the controller recall, talk to users about their experiences and issues with the device, and explore the possible benefits of wired control options. 

Video content: C6 quad Bob Ness shares his experience with the SmartDrive. He says the pros outweigh the cons for him, but he advises learning to use the device safely and offers several tips.

Travel News

United Airlines Settles Lawsuit After Wheelchair User Sustains Brain Injury While Deplaning

Nathaniel “NJ” Foster, a 21-year-old college student and vent-dependent quad, was deplaning in an aisle chair when he sustained a catastrophic brain injury that left him in a persistent vegetative state. Foster’s family claimed that United Airlines’ negligence was to blame and sued the airline for liability. After one day of testimony in the jury trial, the airline and family came to a settlement agreement. John Morris reports on this latest air travel tragedy. 

Amtrak’s New Train Designs May Exceed Access Requirements

In a refreshing counterpoint to the airlines’ indifference over accessibility and disabled travelers, Amtrak is seeking approval from the Federal Railroad Administration to make their new intercity trains even more accessible than current regulations mandate. To help with the process, the rail provider is asking for public comments on the benefits of accessible train travel. Read more on Amtrak’s proposal to go beyond the letter of the law, and learn where to leave a comment

Pro Tips

Temperature Regulation Tips for Wheelchair Users

Whether it’s hot or cold outside, many wheelchair users struggle to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Bob Vogel talks with all-season outdoor enthusiasts about how they manage the thermometer’s fluctuations and shares product recommendations, from cooling neck wraps to heated outerwear.  

Most Accessible Overnight Train Journey: The Lake Shore Limited

Travel and Amtrak consultant Craig P. Kennedy takes us on what he thinks is the best U.S. train journey for wheelchair users. The Lake Shore Limited runs between two iconic cities — Chicago and New York — traversing classic American landscapes from the Great Lakes to the Hudson River Valley, with comfortable, accessible sleeper cabins that offer wheelchair users a rare opportunity to relax during long-distance travel.