Occupational Therapy Driving assessments

Evaluate physical, cognitive, and visual abilities needed for safe driving.

• Cognitive assessments

(attention, memory, processing speed, judgment)
 

• Motor and sensory evaluations

(range of motion, reaction time, strength)
 

• Visual screening 

(depth perception, visual scanning, field of vision)

If appropriate, they conduct real-world driving tests in a dual-control vehicle (has an extra brake pedal), to assess:

• Ability to follow road rules
   
• Situational awareness
   
• Reaction to hazards
   
• Physical handling of the vehicle

Following the assessment, you’ll receive:

• A full report with results
   
• Recommendations:
   
  • Return to driving.
  • Training with or without adaptive equipment.
  • Driving retirement (if safety is significantly compromised).
     
• Communication with your doctor or family (with permission)

Recommend modifications and adaptive equipment to increase independence and safety: 

• Hand controls for accelerator/brake
   
• Left-foot accelerators
   
• Spinner knobs for one-handed steering
   
• Wheelchair lifts or transfer aids
   

They also train clients to use these adaptations safely.

Driver Training: Help clients learn to use vehicle modifications and adapt driving techniques.

They help people:

• Relearn driving skills after injury or illness
   
• Adapt to new cognitive or physical limitations
   
• Build confidence in driving again