2010 BC Guide in Determining Fitness to Drive

ConditionType of drivingimpairment andassessment approachPrimary functionalability affectedAssessment toolsLoss of limbDiseases of thejointsPersistent Impairment:Functional assessmentMotorDriver’s MedicalExamination ReportSpecialist’s reportDisabilities of thespineDeformityICBC Road testFunctionalassessment by anoccupationaltherapist or driverrehabilitationspecialist13.5 CompensationIndividuals with musculoskeletal conditions may be able to compensate for functionalimpairment through strategies and/or vehicle modifications.StrategiesFor loss of limb, an individual may compensate through the use of a prosthetic device whendriving. Other strategies that do not require vehicle modifications may include, for example,rotating the upper body in order to check side view mirrors if the driver’s neck lacks sufficientmobility. The effectiveness of individual strategies may be determined through a road test.Vehicle modificationsIndividuals with musculoskeletal conditions may be able to compensate for a functionalimpairment by driving a vehicle that has been modified to address their impairment.Compensatory vehicle modifications can include modifications to driving controls (e.g. handcontrolled throttle and brake) or the use of additional mirrors.An occupational therapist, driver rehabilitation specialist, driver examiner or other medicalprofessional may recommend specific compensatory vehicle modifications based on anindividual functional assessment. They are familiar with the full range of possible vehiclemodifications and what is appropriate for the type of musculoskeletal condition. Listed beloware examples of some possible vehicle modifications.125