Excellence in Allied Health for Rehabilitation

OccupationalTherapyDrivingAssessments

Assessing Fitness to Drive

Driving is a complex & skilled task.

Should this person be driving?• What are your responsibilities

as an Allied Health professional?

MVR – Mandatory reporting in the NT

• Temporary conditions?

Medical Conditions and DrivingWhat medical conditions may need

temporary suspension of drivers licence?• Stroke & Parkinson’s disease• Chronic pain• Spinal injuries• Acquired Brain Injury• Multiple Sclerosis• Significant musculoskeletal problem• Loss of upper limb or right leg• Age related issues & dementia• Congenital disabilities Cerebral palsy

Off Road Driving Assessment

• Visual screen• Driving history• Road law • Cognitive screen

Includes• Medical history & medications• Physical & sensory screen

On Road Driving Assessment• 1 Hour drive in Dual controlled vehicle with OT & driving assessor.• Areas assessed include: vehicle control, gear selection, traffic observation, decision making, abiding by road laws, driving habits, reaction time, and may include self directed drive. (navigating to a familiar location)• Aids & equipment may also be introduced

Possible Outcomes

• Reinstatement of licence – no conditions• Licence with restrictions or conditions• Adapted equipment and training • Driving lessons required• Cancellation of licence• Reassessment

6-12 months

Equipment

• Left foot accelerator or extended pedals• Spinner knob, tri-pin spinner• Hand controls, electronic spinner knob • Extra mirrors

Licence CategoriesWe can assist with review of

other licences, especially for return to work.

• C - Car• H - endorsement - taxis• LR, MR, HR – Light, Medium,

Heavy Rigid Truck• MC – Road Train• R – Rider

For Further Information

• Terina Saunders, 8981 9000Occupational Therapist Driving Assessor

• Gerard Bredhauer, 8981 9000 Occupational Therapist Driving Assessor

• www.thr.com.au• MVR – Dianne Best • 8999 3153

mvrlicencedpi@nt.gov.au