Adaptive Driving Program

Mobility is an important factor in maximizing independence for people who have experienced a spinal cord injury. At Baylor, driver training is an extension of the rehabilitation process geared toward enhancing an individual's functional independence. Patients are evaluated and trained by an Occupational Therapist licensed by the Texas Education Agency as a Certified Driving Instructor and who holds national certification as a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist. The therapist is also knowledgeable in appropriate vehicle modification equipment and has expertise in behind-the-wheel training for the disabled.

Several vehicles with special adaptations are available to accommodate each patient's individual needs. Evaluation and training can be done at both the car and van level. Adaptations may include:

• Hand controls
• Left foot accelerator
• Steering attachments
• Extensions to secondary controls

The two-part Driving Evaluation consists of a pre-driving clinical evaluation and a behind-the-wheel evaluation. A Driver's License or Instruction Permit is required to drive on public streets, however it is not required for a parking lot only assessment.

The clinical evaluation includes:

• general information
• medical history
• driving history
• Current status of driver's license
• Current physical, visual, and cognitive status as they relate to driving

The behind-the-wheel evaluation includes:

• Performing a series of basic maneuvers in a parking lot setting
• Prescribing adaptive equipment/vehicle modifications
• Possibly proceeding to the public streets at the discretion of the evaluator.

At the conclusion, the patient will be given feedback as to his/her potential for driving and recommendations for additional behind-the-wheel training if indicated.

If follow-up training is recommended, the number of hours required will be estimated by the evaluator and an individual program will be developed for that patient. A valid driver's license or instruction permit is required for follow-up training.

After all behind-the-wheel training is completed, it is recommended the patient contact the Department of Public Safety for a voluntary road test. It is the individuals' responsibility to inform the DPS of any changes in his or her mental or physical condition that could impair his or her ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Driving is considered one of the most complex individual tasks performed on a daily basis and due to the nature and extent of some disabilities, driving is not appropriate for every individual. No guarantee can be made that every patient will be successful in learning to drive.