OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY DRIVER ASSESSMENT

Please note that there are two components to the OT driver assessment:

Off Road Assessment (approx. 1-1.5 hours)

The off-road assessment involves the following:

  • An interview relating to the client’s driving experience and medical history (including medications);
  • Physical screen to determine any physical limitations in range of motion, strength, sensation, tone or coordination;
  • Cognitive screen to determine any difficulties with concentration, attention, memory, problem solving and planning skills;
  • Vision screen to assess acuity, peripheral vision and eye movements;
  • Test of road law/ road craft.

On Road Assessment (approx. 1 hour)

The on-road assessment is carried out in a driving instructor’s vehicle in a vehicle that has dual controls. The driving instructor sits in the front to provide you with instructions and feedback. The occupational therapist sits in the back seat.

The OTs role is to assess the impact of your condition on your ability to drive safely and legally. All aspects of driving are observed including observation, speed control, vehicle positioning, planning, judgment, reaction time and physical control.

Following both assessments, the occupational therapist completes a report based on the information obtained from the assessments with recommendations to VicRoads.

Possible outcomes:

A summary of the possible outcomes to assist with independent, legal and safe driving includes:

  • Installing vehicle modifications;
  • Completing a series of lessons with a driving instructor to improve driving practices, or to become proficient in using vehicle modifications;
  • Recommended use of an automatic vehicle only; or
  • In some circumstances, if it is the only safe option it may be to cancel the client’s drivers’ licence.