It's like the difference between driving a manual and an automatic. I had driving lessons in a dual control car fitted with hand controls, and after about 4 lessons I was good to go. I have the push to break/ down to accelerate type which are more difficult to learn than the push/pull ones, but have various advantages, especially if you live in a very hilly area like I do.

The only thing which I DON'T like is that my drivers license has been restricted so I am only legally allowed to drive with hand controls. That annoyed me, but there's nothing I can do about it.

I do worry about my arms loosing anymore strength though as I find that the controls require quite a bit of arm strength. I have a weak left arm from a stroke (I have lupus) and it is a challenge to steer with one arm only, especially seeing it is that arm. So I may end up getting my steering modified to make it easier to steer. And holding the car on a hill with the hand controls can be demanding, but doable.

overall, I love it. Much easier than driving with my feet, which are very weak. The numbness thing has never worried me with driving, but the weakness does. I was having a lot of trouble finding the accelerator, which meant i have to make the change.

cheers
raglet