Autonomy Allied Health
OUR SERVICES:
DRIVING ASSESSMENTS
What is an occupational therapist driving assessment?
Our occupational therapists are trained to complete driving assessments to enable you to continue driving safely, independently and legally.
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Why do I need a driving assessment?
There are a range of reasons why someone may need to complete a driving assessment. You may require a driving assessment to reassess your driving ability if you have been diagnosed with a health or medical condition recently, had an road traffic accident or have received an unsuccessful result on a VicRoads older driver test.
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You may need an assessment in order to maintain your licence if your health condition or disability is affecting your driving or if you wish to regain your licence.
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How will I know I need one?
You will have received a letter from VicRoads informing you that you need an occupational therapist driving assessment.
How does a driving assessment work?
An occupational therapy driving assessment has multiple components, including off-road and on-road.
During the off-road component our occupational therapists will:
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learn more about you, your driving and medical history,
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assess your understanding of road rules
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assess your physical, visual, sensory and cognitive skills
The off-road assessment seeks to understand:
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your functional limitations
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your understanding of how to drive safely
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whether you need vehicle modifications or conditions need to be placed on your licence
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what is needed for your on-road assessment, which includes whether you need a manual or automatic car, vehicle modifications and where is most suitable for the assessment to take place
During this component your occupational therapist will be able to identify what is needed in order to support your driving ability.
The on-road component will involve you driving with your occupational therapist and a driving instructor. You will be driving a dual-controlled car (where controls are on both sides on the car) with the driving instructor next to you and your occupational therapist in the back seat.
This part of the assessment will assess a range of aspects related to driving, which include:
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any physical limitations you may have
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your driving judgement and your ability to adjust to different traffic situations
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your ability to react to traffic
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your ability to follow the road rules
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your ability to complete a range of driving tasks in range of situations, including different distractions, e.g. talking
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enabling you to trial different vehicle controls and see what is the best vehicle set up for your needs
What happens after the driving assessment?
The driving assessment will be able to determine whether you can return to driving unconditionally, with conditions, such as driving in daylight hours only, or with vehicle modifications, such as a steering aid. Your occupational therapist will provide you with a written report outlining the results of your assessment, including recommendations or the conditions of your licence. This report will be sent to your GP and to VicRoads.
If your occupational therapist identifies that you need a modification, this equipment will be fitted in your car and driving lessons will be recommended in order to help you to learn how to use your car independently. They will assist you with funding applications for a range of requirements.
If your occupational therapist assesses that you are unsafe to driving, you may be asked to:
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undertake driving lessons to help improve your driving skills or in order for you to feel confident with your vehicle modifications
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undertake another on-road test once you have completed lessons
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wait until your condition has improved or have experienced further recovery
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Your occupational therapist may determine that you are not currently safe to drive.
If your occupational therapist has identified that it is not safe for you to drive, they can support you to be able to access the community in different ways, such as providing assistance with public transport, investigate whether funding for taxis or ride-shares are appropriate. Your occupational therapist may also be able to recommend some modifications to support you in feeling more comfortable as a passenger in a vehicle.
Find out more:
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Want to know more?
Speak to our friendly team to discuss your needs and pricing options.
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