Limb Amputations

After a limb amputation, many people can return to driving with the proper assessment, rehabilitation support and vehicle modifications. OT driving assessments help choose modifications to ensure your comfort and safety on the road.

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Assessing the impact on driving

The OT driving assessment explained:

  1. Off-road assessment involving visual, cognitive and physical tests.
  2. On-road driving assessment with OT and driving instructor in dual control vehicle and vehicle modifications (if required).
  3. OT report with recommendations, including driving lessons if needed. Your referring doctor and RMS also get copies of the report.

Vehicle modifications

Many people need vehicle modifications and adaptive equipment to drive safely and legally. We can help you through this process:

Prescription of modifications

OT will prescribe vehicle modifications on your licence and inform RMS of these changes.

Driving lessons

You will need lessons to learn to drive with your modifications in all forms of traffic to prepare for the RMS disability driving test. You may need another OT assessment after your lessons.

Modifying your vehicle

We can refer you to a vehicle modifier who can install the modifications into your vehicle. We are NDIS registered so can help you apply for driving lessons and vehicle modifications under NDIS funding.

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FAQ

Yes, you can drive with a prosthesis in NSW if you demonstrate that you can operate a vehicle and all its controls to legal standards. You must notify the RMS of your condition, submit the RMS medical fitness to drive form, and undertake an OT driving assessment. You will also need to undergo the RMS disability driving test, as prosthetic limbs (including AFOs or other aids you need whilst driving) are considered vehicle modifications by RMS.

There are a variety of vehicle modifications that allow people with amputations to drive safely and to legal standards. Common examples include:

– Hand controls that allow for braking and accelerating to be done by hand

– Steering wheel knobs (aka spinner knobs) that allow steering and indicating to be done by one hand

– Left foot accelerator relocates the accelerator to the left of the footbrake for people who cannot use their right leg or foot

Modifications must be endorsed on your licence and you will need to undertake an OT driving assessment and RMS disability driving test to maintain your licence.

Yes, an amputation is a significant medical issue that must be declared to RMS. Your doctor will need to complete the RMS medical fitness to drive form. Further medical assessment and an OT driving assessment may also follow