Driver Rehabilitation

GET BACK BEHIND THE WHEEL SAFELY

Programs Accepted By Specialists

Working as a consultant with social workers, psychologists and occupational therapist, I create individual specific programs - not a "one-size-fits-all"

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What Is Driver Rehabilitation?

Driver rehabilitation is a process of evaluating and training individuals with physical, cognitive, or visual impairments to ensure that they have the skills and abilities necessary to operate a motor vehicle safely.


The goal of driver rehabilitation is to help individuals with disabilities maintain their independence and mobility by providing them with the resources and support they need to drive safely.

Driver rehabilitation typically begins with an evaluation, during which a trained professional assesses the individual's physical and cognitive abilities, as well as any visual impairments or other challenges that might affect their ability to drive.


Based on the results of the evaluation, the professional may recommend a variety of interventions, including specialized driving equipment or adaptive devices, driving simulation training, or on-road driving instruction with a certified driving instructor.

Driver rehabilitation may be recommended for individuals with a wide range of conditions, including stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, amputation, visual impairments, and neurological disorders.


It is typically provided by a team of professionals, including occupational therapists, rehabilitation engineers, and driving instructors, who work together to help individuals with disabilities regain or maintain their driving skills.

HOW SMART DRIVERS CAN ASSIST WITH DRIVER REHABILITATION

At Smart Drivers, we can assist with driving rehabilitation, once a certified occupational therapist completes a comprehensive assessment of

 

  • Physical capabilities
  • Cognitive and perceptual motor abilities
  • Reaction time
  • Visual acuity, including night vision
  • Decision-making skills 


The occupational therapist may recommend that the vehicle be equipped with adapted controls for better


We can play a key role in helping individuals with disabilities or those who have had a lapse in driving skills to regain their confidence and competence behind the wheel.


Here are a few ways in which Smart Drivers can aid in driver rehabilitation:


Assessing driving skills:
The individual's current driving skills are assessed and we identify any areas that need improvement. This may involve observing the individual driving and providing feedback on their techniques of basic control such as steering, accelerating, braking, and signaling.


Providing guidance and support:
We provide guidance and support to the individual as they work to improve their driving skills. This may include providing feedback on their performance, offering tips for improvement, and demonstrating correct techniques.


Customizing the lesson plan:
We tailor the lesson plan to the individual's specific needs and goals. Focus may be on building their confidence and helping them feel more comfortable behind the wheel.


Motivating:
We encourage the individual to improve their driving skills in a variety of situations and environments to build their confidence and competence. This may include driving on different types of roads, in different weather conditions, and during different times of day.


Providing feedback and reinforcement:
Your driving instructor will provide ongoing feedback and reinforcement to the individual as they progress through their rehabilitation. This can help the individual feel more motivated and supported as they work to improve their driving skills.