Clinical Driver Assessments

The Clinical Driving Assessment program offered by CVMC Rehabilitation Therapy services, in collaboration with the Driver Rehabilitation program at The University of Vermont Medical Center, is a comprehensive clinical assessment for those who may be at a high risk for an automobile crash.

What is involved in a driver’s evaluation?

An occupational therapist, trained in the clinical driver evaluation, determines the effects of one’s medical condition, medication needs and the functional limitations they may present on the road. A client attends both the clinical and on-the-road assessment with another licensed driver who may act as a coach.

The evaluation involves:

• Visual screening.
• Standardized assessments of cognition and memory, range of motion, muscle strength and sensation, and visual perceptual skills.

Who is referred for a driving evaluation?

Experienced drivers who have a valid driving license, with a referral from their physician, whom may have a condition that affects their cognitive/decision making skills such as:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries
• Strokes/cerebral vascular accident
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Dementia
• Mild Cognitive Impairment

Warning signs a person may need a driver assessment:

• Drives too quickly or too slowly
• Needs help or instructions from passengers
• Ignores signs and signals
• Neglects to use turn signals
• Makes slow or poor decisions
• Easily frustrated or confused
• Has a pattern of getting lost, even in familiar areas
• Accidents or near misses
• Drifts across lane markings into other lanes
• Has poor road position or makes wide turns
• Misses important things like signals, signage, or pedestrians
• Failure to yield
• Difficulty interpreting traffic situations

On-the-Road Assessment at UVM Medical Center

UVM Medical Center provides on-the-road assessment that can determine a driver’s ability to handle the vehicle in a variety of traffic situations, evaluate visual and cognitive training needs, and assess/determine the need for adaptive equipment.

The University of Vermont Medical Center
Driver Rehabilitation Program
792 College Parkway
Medical Office Building, Suite 102
Colchester, VT 05446
802-847-3140 (phone)
802-847-5151(fax)

Insurance Information

Some insurance providers cover the evaluation. If your patient’s insurance does not cover driver rehabilitation services, private pay can be arranged.