Occupational therapy driver assessments play a crucial role in supporting medical practitioners, healthcare professionals, and the Department of Transport in the process of assessing an individual’s fitness to drive. These assessments aid in determining whether a driver should be allowed to continue driving and, if so, what aids and equipment might be necessary to facilitate safe and effective driving.
Why is an occupational therapy driving assessment necessary?
- To assess fitness for driving in individuals with medical or age-related changes.
- To determine the readiness of novice drivers to learn to drive.
- To evaluate experienced drivers with acquired medical conditions or disabilities and assess their impact on driving performance, possibly necessitating modified driving controls.
- To assess work-related drivers for the impact of injuries or chronic pain conditions, which may include an ergonomic evaluation.
The Fitness to Drive OT Assessment comprises two parts:
1. Clinical Assessment:
- An interview and functional assessment, which may include:
- Your medical history.
- Your driving history.
- Your vision.
- Your physical abilities.
- Evaluation of decision-making and judgment skills related to driving.
- An understanding of general road law.
2. Road Assessment:
- This assessment takes place in a dual-controlled car, either automatic or manual, with one of our friendly driving instructors, helping reduce the anxiety often associated with a traditional driving test.
Request an OT Assessment
One of us will contact you to discuss further.