Driving a motorised vehicle can contribute to an increase in independence for a person with disability. Motorised vehicles can include electric wheelchairs, scooters, gophers, trucks, vans and specific equipment such as forklifts.
Workplace adjustments and solutions
Driving invovlves many physical tasks such as steering, using signals and indicators and changing gears. Some supports for peple who have difficulty driving include:
Other supports for people who may be unable to drive or can’t drive the workplace vehicles include:
Where vehicle modifications are needed, vehicle assessments can be arranged as well as car modifications training on how to use the equipment:
Driver rehabilitation and assessments may be required to assist a person with disability to drive safely or to be transported safely. All modifications must be certified by an RTA approved engineer who specialises in vehicle modifications for people with a disability.
References:
Roads and Traffic Authority 2007, Vehicle Standards Information No.21, New South Wales Government, viewed 16 February 2012, Sydney, http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/registration/downloads/vsi/vsi_21_-_vehicles_modified_for_people_with_disabilities_nov_2007.pdf.
Trombly, CA & Radomski, MV 2002, Occupational Therapy for Physical Dysfunction, 5th edn, Williams & Wilkins, Philadelphia.