Scanning For Ideas: A Helping Hand for Getting in and out of the Car
March 6, 2008
Lots of people have trouble getting in and out of cars due to injuries, disabilities, or just getting old.
To make the task easier, an inventor came up with Handybar, a product now sold by Handybar Inc., Sidney, B.C., Canada (www.handybar.com). The device has a strong metal tip that fits in the striker plate on a car’s door post (the U-shaped piece of metal the door latches to). Once inserted in the striker plate, the passenger can use the Handybar’s medical-style grip as a support point in exiting or entering the car. When finished, the Handybar can go back in your pocket. It can be used by individuals weighing up to 350 lb. For added safety, it includes a seat-belt cutter and glass breaker.