Driving Rehabilitation

Occupational Therapy Driving Rehabilitation Clients entering the program undergo an Occupational Therapy Driving Evaluation. This evaluation consists of a clinical assessment and an on-theroad assessment in our adapted vehicle. If driving concerns are identified, or if training in the use of adaptive equipment is required, a specific program of therapy is developed to decrease the client’s driving risk. Initial assessment and discharge progress are reviewed with the client and the referring physician. The final decision to drive or to discontinue driving is up to the client and the referring physician. The therapists in the Driving Rehabilitation Program provide professional recommendations, but, by law, cannot make the final decision. Vehicle Modification If a client has successfully completed the driver’s rehabilitation program and will require modifications to their personal automobile, the Driving Program can assist in the selection of equipment and provide guidance for having the equipment professionally installed.

Referral Criteria
To be eligible for participation in the Driver Rehabilitation Program, the client must:
• Be eighteen years of age or older
• Have a valid driver’s license or a temporary permit
• Be seizure free for twelve months or deemed by a physician to have seizures under medical control
• Have a physician’s prescription requesting an Occupational Therapy Driving Evaluation and Rehabilitation.

Driving Program provided by the Driving Rehabilitation Specialists include:

Adaptive Driver Controls Evaluation and Training: a wide variety of adaptive controls are available when you can no longer drive with standard gas and brake pedals. These range from hand controls or left-foot accelerators to highly sensitized low-effort steering and electronic gas and brake hand controls.
Car/ Van Evaluation: an evaluation to identify the type of vehicle and modifications that would be needed for individuals with disabilities who will be riding as a passenger in a van.
Van/Driver's Evaluation: if you would need to drive a van because you are unable to transfer from the wheelchair to a vehicle seat and load the chair.
Van Education: for individuals who are considering purchasing a van, but need clarification on type of van.
Van Modification Evaluation: for individuals who own a van but need recommendations regarding appropriate modifications for safe driving; provides detailed driving equipment prescriptions
Driver's Training: on-the-road training to gain skills required for safe driving.
Practice: for those who may not require special driving controls, but need some additional supports and on-the road practice time.

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