WHO NEEDS A DRIVING ASSESSMENT?
Someone who has a medical condition that affects their driving abilities needs an assessment.
Ultimately, your GP/treating specialist will advise you if you are safe to continue driving. An Occupational Therapist (OT), specialising in driving can provide an assessment of your fitness to drive if your doctor can not determine if you are safe to continue driving with your medical condition.
OFF-ROAD ASSESSMENT
The off-road assessment is completed at Albion and includes:
- An interview about your driving history
- Vision tests
- Physical tests
- Knowledge of road rules
- A variety of tests that determine your thinking, problem solving and planning skills.
ON-ROAD ASSESSMENT
This usually lasts for 50 minutes and may occur on the same day as your off-road assessment.
It will be in the driving school vehicle with dual controls. The driving instructor will sit in the front passenger seat. The OT will sit in the rear left seat and observe how you drive while taking notes.
AFTER THE ASSESSMENT?
You will be advised about your options that may include:
- You are safe to continue driving.
- You are unsafe to drive at this time, but you can be assessed again in the future.
- You may need vehicle modifications and some lessons in how to use these modifications. You will need a medical certificate from your GP that allows you to undertake lessons.
- Once you have learnt how to use these modifications successfully, your licence will be endorsed by QLD Transport with an V condition (vehicle modification notice).
- You may require further lessons to improve your driving abilities due to the difficulties present from your medical condition.
- A reassessment with the Occupational Therapist may be needed.
A report may be sent to your GP and the referral agency informing them of the outcome of the assessment. Your doctor makes the final decision about medical clearance for driving.
The Driving Assessment and Rehabilitation Service is a specialist consultancy service only.
For Further details contact beliunda@bodymechanics.com.au or our reception on 3862 6238.