The Gold Standard for Assessing Driver Safety

Comprehensive Clinical Driving Evaluation

The Gold Standard for Assessing Driver Safety

As people age or face medical challenges, the ability to drive safely can be impacted by physical, cognitive, or visual changes. Clinical Driving Evaluations provide a thorough, personalized approach to assessing driving capabilities, ensuring the safety of drivers and others on the road. Designed specifically for medically complex individuals and older adults, this evaluation combines expert analysis with tailored recommendations to support informed decisions about driving safety.  All assessments are completed by licensed Occupational Therapists who are also Driver Rehabilitation Specialists and Professional Driving Instructors. 

What is a Comprehensive Clinical Driving Evaluation?

A Comprehensive Clinical Driving Evaluation is a multi-step process designed to evaluate the skills essential for safe driving. It begins with an in-clinic assessment and may include an in-vehicle evaluation, depending on the results of the initial testing. This comprehensive process is ideal for individuals experiencing medical conditions, recovering from illness or injury, or whose families or physicians have expressed concerns about their driving abilities.  

The evaluation process not only ensures safety but also empowers individuals and families by providing a clear understanding of a driver’s strengths and areas that may require intervention.  

Part One: In-Clinic Testing:

The in-clinic assessment evaluates a range of critical skills, including:  

  • Physical Abilities:
    • Strength and endurance for managing vehicle controls
    • Coordination and flexibility for steering, braking, and acceleration
    • Reaction time to respond quickly to hazards and changing traffic conditions
  • Cognitive Skills:
    • Ability to focus attention and process information efficiently
    • Memory, multitasking and problem-solving skills
    • Insight/awareness and judgement 
  • Visual and Perceptual Abilities:
    • Depth perception for judging distances
    • Visual acuity, peripheral vision, and scanning for monitoring the driving environment
    • Spatial awareness for the ability to navigate traffic safely
    • Visual processing speed for noticing and anticipating potential hazards 

This stage of the evaluation typically takes about two hours and is tailored to meet the specific needs and medical conditions of the individual. The therapist uses standardized tests and customized approaches to gather a complete picture of the driver’s capabilities.  

Part Two: On-Road Assessment

Clients who are able to demonstrate sufficient underlying skills during the in-clinic assessment will then move on to the behind-the-wheel evaluation. Scheduled for a later date, this phase provides a real-world opportunity to observe driving performance. A valid driver’s license or permit is required. In cases of a suspended license, your therapist will assist you in navigating the process of obtaining a permit. 

The on-road assessment is completed in our company car that is equipped with a passenger-side brake for safety. Clients are given ample time to adjust to the vehicle, and cushions/alternative mirrors will be used if needed. 

The client will drive a pre-determined route under the supervision of a Driver Rehabilitation Specialist/Professional Driving Instructor, who monitors and assesses:  

  • Vehicle control including lane positioning, speed, and breaking distance
  • Awareness of surroundings through effective scanning and use of mirrors
  • Reaction to traffic signs/signals and unexpected hazards
  • Ability to follow rules of the road and adapt to traffic conditions
  • Ability to process, remember, and problem-solve 

We are sensitive to the fact that some clients may not be familiar with the area in which the test is provided. Skilled navigation will be provided by the therapist.

What are the Possible Outcomes?

  • Continue/Return to driving: The client is deemed safe to drive with or without specific adaptive strategies.
  • Further intervention: The client may be recommended to:
  • Participate in occupational or physical therapy to improve underlying skills required for safe driving
  • Follow-up with medical providers to address an underlying condition or symptom
  • Participate in behind-the-wheel sessions to work on safe driving skills and/or adaptive techniques
  • Driving Cessation: If it is determined that the client is no longer safe to drive, counseling will be provided on easing the transition, including strategies for the family as well as alternative transportation options to assure access to the community.

Why Choose a Comprehensive Clinical Driving Evaluation?

A clinical driving evaluation is more than a driving test– it is a supportive process designed to guide informed decisions about driving safety while taking the burden off of families. This evaluation offers:

  • Expert Guidance: Assessments are conducted by licensed Occupational Therapists with advanced training in driver rehabilitation. Our Occupational Therapists are also Professional Driving Instructors, allowing them to offer the full-spectrum of in-vehicle services and work with the client throughout the entire process.
  • Personalized Approach: Evaluations are tailored to the unique needs and medical conditions of each client. Our Occupational Therapists are experienced in working with clients of all ages and abilities. 
  • Confidence and Safety: Clear, evidence-based recommendations ensure the safety of the driver and others on the road.  

Who Should Consider a Clinical Driving Evaluation?

This service is ideal for individuals who:  

  • Are recovering from illness, injury, or a prolonged hospitalization
  • Have experienced changes in physical or cognitive abilities
  • Are older adults with age-related medical conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, vision changes, and cardiopulmonary conditions 
  • Have been diagnosed with a progressive neurological condition, including but not limited to dementia, Parkinson’s disease, or Multiple Sclerosis 
  • Are recovering from a neurological event, such as a stroke, brain injury, or spinal cord injury
  • Have been referred by a physical, family member, or other concerned party for further assessment

What Does it Cost? Will Insurance Cover it?

Occupational Therapy evaluations and treatment for the sole purpose of addressing driving are currently not covered by insurance. However, we do recommend checking with your insurance provider about possible reimbursement, as well as checking eligibility for use of FSA/HSA accounts.

Funding may be available for clients who meet specific criteria (e.g., MassAbility (formerly Mass Rehab Commission), Cecropia Strong).

For those with neurological conditions, we encourage you to reach out to your local association to inquire about possible financial assistance (e.g., APDA, MS Society, Alzheimer’s Association).

Our Pricing:

  • In-Clinic Assessment: $310
  • On-Road Assessment: $275
  • Follow-up In-Car Sessions: $160/hr 

Click here for a list of programs in Massachusetts, including locations and associated costs. 

How Do I Book? 

Being a medically-based program, we require a doctor’s order as well as your most recent visit note to provide us with the necessary information to allow us to personalize your assessment. You can ask your doctor to “fax an Occupational Therapy order for a clinical driving evaluation” to DriveRx at (781) 235-3233. Alternatively, you can reach out to us here, and we are happy to answer any questions and assist you with the referral process. 

Supporting Drivers Every Step of the Way

At the heart of the Clinical Driving Evaluation process is a commitment to empowering clients. Whether the goal is to continue driving safely or transition to alternative transportation, this gold-standard evaluation offers the tools and insights needed to make informed decisions.  

With a focus on safety, independence, and quality of life, Clinical Driving Evaluations provide peace of mind for drivers and their loved ones.

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