Enabling Independence through Driving with Adaptive Equipment

Adaptive Driving Evaluation and Training

Enabling Independence through Driving with Adaptive Equipment

For individuals with conditions that impact their physical ability to drive with traditional pedals and/or steering, adaptive driving equipment can offer the ability to regain independence and safely operate a vehicle. Adaptive Driving Evaluations are designed for people looking to drive with equipment such as hand controls, spinner knobs, steering devices, positioning aides and left foot accelerators. These evaluations provide an opportunity to assess the suitability of adaptive driving devices, ensuring both safety and comfort while driving. All assessments and training are completed by licensed Occupational Therapists who are also Driver Rehabilitation Specialists and Professional Driving Instructors. 

What is Adaptive Driving? 

Adaptive driving refers to modifying a vehicle with special equipment that enables individuals with physical disabilities or limitations to safely operate it. This may include hand controls, spinner knobs, steering devices, positioning aides, left foot accelerators, or pedal extensions that make it possible for individuals to drive who may otherwise be unable to do so due to medical conditions or injuries. 

What is the Process?

At DriveRx, we guide clients through the entire process from evaluation to training, passing the RMV competency exam, and ultimately adapting their vehicle. Our comprehensive Adaptive Driving Evaluation consists of in-clinic testing followed by an in-vehicle evaluation/equipment trial, which typically takes about 2 hours to complete. Our car is equipped with a variety of both left and right-sided hand controls, spinner knobs, positioning aides, and a left foot accelerator. 

Part One: In-Clinic Testing:

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

  • Physical Abilities:
    • Strength, endurance, sensation, and coordination for utilizing adaptive equipment
    • Reaction time to assure ability to notice and respond quickly
  • Cognitive Skills:
    • Ability to focus attention and process information efficiently
    • Memory, multitasking and problem-solving skills
    • Learning potential
  • 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 signs, traffic lights, and anticipating potential hazards 

This section of the evaluation typically takes 1-1.5 hours to complete and is designed to evaluate whether an individual is a good candidate for adaptive driving training, as well as guide the therapist in beginning to determine what type of adaptive equipment will be most appropriate.

Part Two: In-Vehicle Assessment/Equipment Trial

Immediately following the in-clinic portion, clients who are deemed appropriate for adaptive driving training will then participate in a behind-the-wheel assessment/equipment trial. This section of the evaluation allows clients to test various types of equipment and see how they perform in real-world driving conditions. This typically takes 30 minutes-1 hour to complete. Potential recommends for equipment may include:

  • Hand Controls: Devices that allow individuals with impaired leg/foot function to operate the gas and brake pedals with their hands
  • Spinner Knobs: Steering wheel attachments that make it easier to turn the wheel with one hand
  • Left Foot Accelerators: A modified accelerator pedal for individuals who have difficulty using their right foot
  • Multifunction Spinner Knobs: Bluetooth-activated controls that allow access to secondary controls such as turn signals, wipers, horns, etc, all with a push of a button while driving
  • Positioning Aides: Various cushions and mirrors to allow for optimal positioning, line of sight, and comfort while driving

Part Three: Recommendations for Follow-Up Training

After completion of the comprehensive Adaptive Driving Evaluation, you will work with your therapist to determine a timeline and schedule for follow-up training. While it is an extremely individualized process and the number of lessons required to become safe and competent with use of the equipment varies, you can expect to participate in at least 4-8 sessions. Each training session is 1 hour in length, and will work on assuring confidence in safely using the equipment in a variety of traffic environments, as well as preparing you to pass the RMV competency exam.

Part Four: RMV Competency Exam

Once you and your therapist feel confident in your ability to drive safely with use of adaptive equipment, you will be guided through the process of scheduling your RMV Competency Exam. This is required for you to legally be able to drive with adaptive equipment. Our company vehicle will be used for the RMV competency test with the adaptive equipment that you have been trained in with your therapist as a sponsor. 

Part Five: Adapting Your Vehicle

Once you have completed all of your training and pass the RMV competency exam, your therapist will then provide you with a prescription which allows you to get your personal vehicle modified with the recommended adaptive equipment. We work closely with NMEDA certified mechanics to assure the highest level of quality and safety assurance with adaptive equipment installation. 

Who Should Consider an Adaptive Driving Evaluation? 

Adaptive Driving Evaluations are ideal for individuals who:  

  • Have an underlying medical condition that results in impaired sensation or motor function, such as neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or spina bifida 
  • Have completed their rehabilitation but have residual physical deficits from a stroke, spinal cord injury, or other neurological condition that impacts motor skills or coordination 
  • Require the use of an AFO or prosthetic
  • Have had an amputation

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, DDS).

For those with neurological conditions, we encourage you to reach out to your local association to inquire about financial assistance.

Our Pricing: 

  • In-Clinic & In-Car Evaluation (same day): $550
  • Follow-up In-Car Sessions: $160/hr 
  • RMV Competency Test Sponsorship: $250 *travel fees may apply

We are proud to offer the lowest cost for Comprehensive Adaptive Driving Evaluations in Massachusetts. Click here for a list of programs, 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 an adaptive 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. 

Regain Your Independence with Adaptive Driving

Driving with adaptive equipment is a life-changing opportunity for many individuals, offering the freedom and independence to travel, work, and engage in their community. Our Adaptive Driving Evaluation & Training services provide the knowledge, expertise, and guidance needed to drive safely and confidently with modifications.  

Resources

*Please note mass.gov information may not be up to date