Driver Education and Training

Mobility is vital in today's society and the ability to drive is a crucial component of a person's independence. However, driving often seems an unattainable goal for those who are limited by illness, injury, psychological or the physiological changes associated with aging. Frazier Rehab Institute offers a comprehensive Driver Evaluation and Training Program. Within this program, occupational therapy professionals who are certified driver rehab specialists, work closely with physicians. The program's evaluation components include: a review of medical and driving history, pre-driving and vehicle evaluation, behind-the-wheel evaluation and, if necessary, training, and equipment recommendations.

Frazier Rehab Institute also offers the evaluation and training to new drivers with physical or psychosocial deficits, such as ADHD, Spina Bifada, CP and Multiple Sclerosis.

The goal of Frazier Rehab Institute's driving program is to facilitate independence in driving. All participants are given every opportunity to maximize their driving potential before completing the program.

The Program Provides:

Pre-Driving Evaluation

The evaluation begins with an interview to review the participants medical/driving history, personal driving goals, and a thorough evaluation of driving capacities which include: physical range of motion, coordination, compliance with legal vision requirements for Kentucky, hearing, knowledge of road rules, reaction times, and problem solving/decision making ability.

Behind-the Wheel Evaluation

The client participates in an on-the-road assessment with a certified driver rehab specialist in a Frazier Rehab Institute education vehicle. The assessment typically begins in a low traffic area and progresses to more complex situations, as the driver feels more comfortable. The program assists the client in building the confidence necessary to drive.

Individualized Driving Training

At the conclusion of the on-road evaluation, recommendations may be made for driver training. The participant is then provided with behind-the-wheel training to improve all skills needed for independent driving. Training is also performed with the certified driver rehab specialist in the same training vehicle with any needed adaptive equipment/modifications.

Vehicle and Equipment Evaluation

Recommendations are direct result of the evaluation process and outcomes. The recommendations are made regarding the patient’s vehicle if it is determined adaptive equipment or modifications are needed.  Modifications are made to compensate for limited physical, visual or emotional deficits.

Equipment Prescription

When adaptive devices are recommended, a prescription is written for the client. Referrals are made to local businesses licensed in vehicle modifications.

Restriction Recommendation

Occasionally, a person can initiate or return to driving only under certain restrictions, such as: daytime driving only. The program will make these recommendations on an individual basis.

Who Can Benefit

• Individuals with physical impairments interested in returning to driving.
• Individuals with physical or cognitive limitations who are unaware of their potential to drive.
• Physicians and other medical professionals who ask, "Is it safe for this person to drive?"
• Parents who ask, "Could my child be taught to drive?"
• Agencies who ask, "Could my client be taught to drive?"
• Families who ask, "Could my older family member be a better driver ?"
• Anyone needing information on driving issues concerning the following: visual impairments, diabetes, the older driver, arthritis, congenital disabilities, cardiac or orthopaedic conditions and illnesses or injuries including: stroke, amputation, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer Disease, other dementia related syndromes and neurological impairments.

Requirements

To take part you must:

1. Have a valid driver's license or permit.
2. Be physically and medically stable and seizure-free for three months.
3. Possess endurance to tolerate a two-hour evaluation.
4. Individuals with visual disturbances or visual field cut will be given a form to present to an ophthalmologist prior to the evaluation.

For More Information

For details regarding Frazier's comprehensive Driver Evaluation and Training Program and costs, please call:

Frazier Rehab Institute Newburg
Driver Evaluation and Training Program
3430 Newburg Road, Suite #111
Louisville, Kentucky 40218
Telephone: (502) 451 - 6886
Fax: (502) 458 - 2158

Member of the Association of Driver Educators for the Disabled