There are many reasons why an individual might require a driving evaluation; however, before we address the reasons why, let’s review what exactly a driver evaluation is.
WHAT IS A DRIVER EVALUATION?
A driver evaluation is a comprehensive set of physical and/or cognitive assessments performed by a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist (CDRS). It is designed to evaluate an individual’s cognitive and/or physical limitations related to safely operating a motor vehicle.
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM AN EVALUATION?
• Any individual with a physical and/or cognitive limitation or impairment interested in regaining their independence by operating a motor vehicle.
• Any person where a physician or family member has questioned an individual’s ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
WHAT CRITERIA IS USED IN THE EVALUATION PROCESS?
When undergoing a driving evaluation, the following skills are addressed, and performance must be deemed acceptable by a CDRS.
• Physical Function – Range of motion, strength, coordination, endurance, and sensation.
• Vision – Visual acuity, depth perception, contrast sensitivity, peripheral and color recognition.
• Cognition – Attention, judgment, memory, spatial, perception, problem-solving.
• Reaction Time – Ability to respond timely and accurately concerning driving tasks.
• Self Control – Ability to modulate oneself in response to demands in the environment.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS ORDER OF AN EVALUATION?
A driver evaluation usually consists of the following steps lasting 2 to 3 hours. However, each case is unique, so the time allotted will vary.
• Clinical—This portion of the evaluation consists of screening tools, assessments, and standardized skills tests related to physical, cognitive, visual, and reaction time.
• Behind the Wheel—This portion of the evaluation assesses the clients’ abilities to control the vehicle in various road situations. This step is only performed if the client demonstrates the necessary physical, visual, cognitive, and reaction times during the clinical assessment. Adaptive equipment will be used and introduced if necessary during the clinical evaluation. The client must have a previous driver’s license or permit to participate in this part of the evaluation.
• Results/Outcomes—A summary of the evaluation will detail the clients’ abilities and include a list of recommendations.
• Equipment Prescription—If warranted, a written prescription that includes the recommendation of adaptive equipment is provided, and a referral to an appropriate vendor/vehicle modifier is made.
• Fitting and Inspection – After the vendor modification / Installation, a final fitting is conducted to ensure that the prescribed equipment or modification is positioned properly and adjustments are made.
• Driver Rehabilitation Training—If necessary, training begins in the operation of modifying/installing equipment. The duration of this training is determined by the therapist and will vary based on the client’s needs.
WHAT TYPE OF MODIFICATION/EQUIPMENT MIGHT I BE PRESCRIBED?
Everyone’s needs and situation are different; however, the most popular vehicle modifications and installation of adaptive equipment are as follows:
• Lowered floor, wheelchair-accessible van
• Wheelchair or scooter lift
• Hand controls
• Transfer seat
• High-tech, electronic driving systems
• Wheelchair restraints
• Docking systems
DOES INSURANCE PAY FOR THE EVALUATION?
Unfortunately, insurance plans do not often cover these services. Please check with your insurance provider to determine your exact coverage.
DOES INSURANCE PAY FOR THE MODIFICATION / INSTALLATION OF ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT?
Most insurance companies do not cover the modification/installation of adaptive equipment. However, many sources do provide assistance, and you might qualify. To see if you qualify, you should research the following services for assistance availability as they are the most common:
• Vocational Rehabilitation Services (for your state)
• Workers Compensation (if qualify and applicable to your situation)
• Veteran Administration (if qualify and applicable to your situation)
• Insurance Provider
• Medical Assistance Programs
As you can see, a driver evaluation is not only very important, but it is a process. It is a process that is best started as soon as possible in a situation where time is of the essence in regaining mobility.
If you think you might be a candidate or just interested in learning more about driver evaluations, please DO YOUR RESEARCH and contact a CDRS in your area. Most rehabilitation facilities will have a list of CDRS in your area and can provide contact information. We also work with numerous CDRS in Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Illinois, Tennessee, Nebraska, Iowa, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida, and Louisiana, so feel free to contact any one of them, Superior Van and Mobility locations in those markets.