The assessment of severely disabled people to verify their competence to drive a motor vehicle with evidence based protocols

Abstract

Objectives. The demographics of the disabled and aging populations who are demanding to maintain their independence and mobility are testing the driver licensing authorities to ensure that physical and cognitive difficulties are measured to an acceptable standard. The highways are becoming more congested with an ever increasing population which is likely to continue for many years to come. It is therefore important to ensure that the disabled and elderly populations are accurately assessed of their competence to drive for the safety of all. Assessment procedures which take account of the client's limitations, innovative adaptations to vehicles and the latest range of vehicles available should result in a solution which satisfies the national regulations and the aspirations of disabled and elderly people. Methods. In North America, Europe and Scandinavia this task is being carried out by a team of professionals such as Occupational Therapists, Clinicians and Engineers. Assessment centres are being developed throughout these countries working to national and local standards utilising part time and voluntary staff in an effort to keep costs down. The need for evidence based assessment reports is becoming an essential requirement to justify the costs of funding an adapted vehicle, especially if a drive from the wheelchair solution is deemed necessary. Results. It is clear that a common approach to assessment methods is required and new EU initiatives are being developed such as PORTARE and CAPI projects (Refer: Fit to Drive International Congress in Prague June 19th-20th 2008) which will result in an EU handbook of Driving Assessment and Protocols for adapting vehicles. Discussion. Will it be possible for countries who take their population demographics seriously to participate in these EU initiatives and benefit from the research to ensure that their disabled and aging people will be able to drive safely on the road?