Spinal Cord Injuries

A spinal cord injury doesn’t mean that you must give up driving. OT driving assessments play a crucial role in determining how an individual can safely and legally return to driving.

The Assessment Process

The OT driving assessment is composed of 3 parts:

  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 after a spinal cord injury

It is important to be driving legally and safely following a spinal cord injury.

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 to NDIS to fund these supports.

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FAQ

A spinal cord injury is a major medical condition that may disrupt your ability to safely operate a vehicle. Returning to driving will depend on the level of injury and your recovery period. Your doctor will decide when it is safe for you to drive again, and if vehicle modifications are required, you will need an OT driving assessment.

Common vehicle modifications that allow people with spinal cord injuries to drive to legal standards include:

– Hand controls that allow for braking and accelerating to be done by hand. There are a variety of hand controls available.

– Electric spinner knobs or joysticks for steering

There are also modifications to help with transfers, wheelchair access and ramps or hoists. You will require an OT driving assessment to determine the

suitable modifications for you and your vehicle, and will also need to take the RMS disability driving test to maintain your licence.

Yes, it is possible to drive from your wheelchair if you have a suitable vehicle (i.e. van). Along with the driving controls you need (e.g. hand controls), it is also possible to alter your vehicle with wheelchair lifts or ramps and swivel seats. If you are a NDIS participant, you may apply to cover the cost of your necessary modifications.