U-Turn Driver Assessment & Training provides occupational therapy driver assessments (OTDA's) in Northern Tasmania.
If you have a medical condition which could affect your ability to drive safely, your doctor may request a driver assessment to determine your medical fitness to drive. A driver assessment can only be conducted by an occupational therapist who is qualified to conduct driver assessments, such as U-Turn Driver Assessment & Training.
U-Turn Driver Assessment & Training provides a comprehensive off-road assessment and on-road assessment process to determine the impact a medical condition or disability has on an individual's ability to drive in a safe and independent manner.
Off-Road Assessment
The off-road assessment involves:
- An interview relating to the client's driving experience and medical history (including medications);
- Physical screen to determine any physical limitations in range of motion, strength, sensation, tone or coordination;
- Cognitive screen to determine any difficulties with concentration, attention, memory, problem solving and planning skills;
- Vision screen to assess acuity, peripheral vision and eye movements; and a
- Test of road knowledge.
The test takes approximately 2 hours to complete.
On-Road Assessment
The on road assessment is carried out in a driving instructor's vehicle. The vehicle has dual controls and may be modified with equipment to suit your needs.
The driving instructor sits in the front to provide you with instructions and feedback. The occupational therapist sits in the back seat; their role is to assess the impact of your condition on your ability to drive safely and legally.
All aspects of driving are observed including observation, speed control, vehicle positioning, planning, judgment, reaction time and physical control.
The test takes approximately 1 hour to complete.
After the Assessment
The occupational therapist writes a report based on the information obtained from the assessments with recommendations. A copy of the report is sent to the Division of Transport (Department of Infrastructure, Energy and Resources), the referring agent (eg: doctor) and any other relevant persons/organisations.
Conclusions and decisions are made by focusing on:
- The impact the medical condition or disability has on the client's ability to drive safely, legally and independently;
- Whether vehicle modifications are required to achieve this; and/or
- Whether a series of driving lessons are required to achieve this.
A summary of the possible outcomes to assist with independent, safe and legal driving includes:
- Installation of vehicle modifications;
- Completion of a series of lessons with the driving instructor to improve driving practices, or to become proficient in using the vehicle modifications;
- Licence holder is restricted to driving only with a qualified driving instructor or other fully licenced driver;
- Recommended use of an automatic vehicle only; or
- In some situations the only safe option is to recommend the cancellation of the clients drivers' licence.
From the 1st of January 2024, the cost of this service for privately paying individuals is $480.00. This does not include the services of the driving instructor. The cost of the driving instructor varies; this amount is paid directly to the driving instructor during the on road component. Full payment must be made prior to the commencement of the assessment. Payment can be made by cash, cheque or direct debit. Credit card or EFTPOS payments can also be accepted.
Referrals can be made by contacting U-Turn Driver Assessment & Training on the above phone number or other contact details.