What are vehicle modifications?

(1) Vehicle modifications are physical adaptations to your vehicle to:

(a) Ensure the health, welfare, and safety of you, your caregiver, or both; or

(b) Enable you, who may otherwise require a more restrictive environment, to function with greater independence in your home and community.

(2) Examples of vehicle modifications include:

(a) Wheel chair lifts;

(b) Strap downs;

(c) Other access modifications; and

(d) Repairs and maintenance to vehicle modifications if necessary for your safety.

(3) The provider making vehicle modifications must be a vehicle adaptive equipment vendor contracted with the developmental disabilities administration (DDA) to provide this service.

(4) The following limits apply to vehicle modifications:

(a) Prior approval by the regional administrator or designee is required.

(b) DDA requires evidence that you have exhausted your private insurance, medicaid benefits, and benefits from the division of vocational rehabilitation (DVR) before authorizing this service.

(c) Vehicle modifications must be the most cost-effective modification based on a comparison of contractor bids as determined by DDA.

(d) Clinical and support needs for vehicle modifications are limited to those identified in your DDA assessment and documented in your person-centered service plan.

(e) Modifications will only be approved for a vehicle that serves as your primary means of transportation and is owned by you, your family, or both.

(f) DDA requires your treating professional's written recommendation regarding your need for vehicle modifications. This recommendation must take into account that the treating professional has recently examined you, reviewed your medical records, and conducted a functional evaluation.

(g) DDA may require a second opinion from a DDA-selected provider.