| Physical
Considerations: The following are considerations
for selecting a vehicle:
Driving a sedan: The individual must be able to
do the following:
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Open and close the door
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Transfer in and out of the vehicle
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A wheelchair/scooter must be able to be stored
and retrieved. Special equipment is available
to aid with storage.
Driving a van: Options may include a mini-van
with a lowered floor and a ramp or a full size
van with a lift. Specialized modifications allow
a person to transfer to the driver’s seat
or drive from a wheelchair. Technology may be
able to compensate for the loss of strength or
range of motion such as:
-
Reduced effort steering and/or brake systems
to compensate for reduced strength.
-
Mechanical hand controls allow for operation
of the gas and brake using upper extremities.
-
Servo brake/accelerator systems compensate for
reduced strength/range of motion of arms.
-
If spasticity is difficult to manage, it may
lead to an inability to drive.
The following physical changes may affect your
ability to drive:
Visual Changes:
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May be severe enough that driving is precluded
or night driving is prohibited.
-
If double vision is intermittent & can be
monitored independently, then driving may be
limited to avoid driving during an exacerbation.
-
Sunglasses may help with glare sensitivity.
-
Compensate for loss of peripheral vision with
special mirrors & head turning.
-
Learn order of traffic signals to aid with color
vision impairment.
Cognitive Issues:
- Need
to regulate emotions & avoid driving when
upset, angry or overly emotional.
-
May be limited to familiar routes if some loss
of memory or problem solving but still enough
judgment to drive.
Decreased Energy:
-
Energy conservation is vital
-
May require assistance with wheelchair loading
to save energy for driving
-
Air conditioning aids with managing warm climates
Medications:
-
Seek the physician’s input regarding side
effects which may impair driving.
-
Monitor when medications are taken. Don’t
drive when sleepy or just before or after medicating.
Call
us today with any questions or to schedule a driving
evaluation at (814) 833-2301
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