Driving assessment - a case of need

Abstract

The ability to drive a car is important for the retention of independence within modern Western society. However, the assessment of car-driving ability is not normally part of a rehabilitation programme. This study has made an assessment of the demand for such a service in a random selection of disabled people in Newcastle upon Tyne. A total of 11 000 people were screened using the OPCS disability questionnaire. The disabled population identified with a predominant physical disability aged 16-80-years-old was sent a further questionnaire regarding driving status. One-hundred-and-nine current disabled drivers were identified, very few of whom had received any advice on car choice or car adaptations. Twenty per cent of the disabled population felt they would have benefited from advice from a driving assessment centre. A subgroup of 39 people attended for a more detailed driving assessment. Twenty-three people in this group were current drivers and it was felt that 17 could have benefited from further advice, particularly regarding car and control adaptations. A total of 16 ex- drivers or nondrivers were also evaluated and 11 of this group were felt capable of driving after appropriate advice. Overall this study has demonstrated the need for access to advice on ability to drive and car adaptation. A large number of the disabled population proposed that driving assessment and advice should be an integral part of a rehabilitation programme. There should be an increase in the number of properly equipped driving assessment centres in this country.