ARMLESS AUCKLAND MAN STILL DRIVES MOTOR-CAR

Press, Volume XCV, Issue 28259, 23 April 1957, Page 6

ARMLESS AUCKLAND MAN STILL DRIVES MOTOR-CAR

“The Press” Special Service

AUCKLAND, April 22. Auckland motorists who find themselves following a green motor-car which bears in the rear window a notice reading “No hand signals” will probably ponder on the reason. There will be nothing in the car’s behaviour to suggest that the driver is in any way handicapped, but in fact he will be Mr John Taylor, of Papakura, who has two artificial arms. Mr Taylor lost his arms in an electrical accident three years ago and since then has. been wearing the artificial limbs. A month ago he gained a driving licence. He had held one from the age of 15 up to the time of the accident. After passing the test without trouble he celebrated his triumph by making a tour through Taupo, Napier, Gisborne and Tauranga. Several modifications to the con-

trols were made free by the Papakura motor firm from which he bought the car. An attachment on the steering wheel plugs into his left limb and all the controls have been moved from their normal positions in the centre of the car to the right of the steering column. The alterations include a lengthened gear lever and winking light switch and a modified handbrake. Mr Taylor, who is a keen motorist, finds little difficulty in driving. His car is fitted with overdrive and he finds this a great help, especially in city driving. Aged 28, he is married with two children and finds plenty of opportunities for driving. “I had some trouble in getting used to steering,” says Mr Taylor, “but the rest is just child’s play. I am quite at home in heavy city traffic.”