“Will I be able to drive with my prosthetic device?”
For many patients, this is one of the first questions that is asked when working with Abilities In Motion. Recently we spoke to Joy Lawson, an above knee amputee, about how she returned to driving after her amputation. For Joy, the primary motivator was the ability to have freedom and independence.
CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS AND A LIST OF AREA DRIVING INSTRUCTORS/AUTHORIZED DEALERS
There are a variety of adaptive devices that can safely help individuals with disabilities operate a motor vehicle safely. Since Joy wears a prosthesis on her right side, her vehicle was modified with a left foot accelerator. For other amputees, the accelerator and brake can be regulated using hand controls. Because every situation is different, it’s important to consult a professional that can offer individualized options.
To comply with Ohio law and insurance regulations you will need to get a physician’s evaluation before returning to driving. Your physician may recommend that you receive specialized driving training and provide you a physical therapy prescription for this purpose. It’s important that you contact both your health and drivers insurance companies to see what benefits you may be entitled to asset you in this process. In general, Medicare does not provide benefits to provide financial resources for motor vehicle adaptive devices. A list of certified driving instructors can be found on our website (www.AbilitiesInMotion.com/Driving)
Once you have completed a clinical evaluation, and received a “Vehicle Modification and Adaptive Equipment Prescription for Driving and/or Transportation” from a Licensed Driver Instructor, you will need to take the prescription to a licensed dealership to have an adaptive equipment installed on your vehicle. Ohio American Bus & Accessories (800-582-7118, www.american-bus-inc.com) are authorized dealers in southwest Cincinnati.
Many individuals who have lower limb prosthetic devices can drive vehicles safely and effectively with a few modifications. This enables you to live your life more normally, relying less on others for transportation.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
• Link to Request for Statement of Physician
• Many states have specific requirements for reporting conditions that affect your ability to drive.
• You must have a physician’s approval to return to driving.
• Speak with your doctor and therapist if you are considering a return to driving.
• You may need to have a clinical evaluation.
DRIVING SCHOOLS/RESOURCE CONTACTS
Trihealth.com
PHONE: 513-569-6777
Offers Driving Program by a licensed occupational therapist with behind-the-wheel evaluation. They require a physician’s prescription.
Bick’s Driving
PHONE: 513-251-2100
2-3 Hour Session
Need Driver License & Doctor Prescription. This is an out-of-pocket service.
Full Drivers Evaluation – Cost can range from $295-$350 (cost may change)
Behind the Wheel Evaluation – Cost can range from $150-$250 (cost may change)
Kettering Sports Medicine
PHONE: 937-395-3900
2-3 Hour Session. Need Driver License & Doctor Prescription
Full Drivers Evaluation – $150-$250 (cost may change)
Behind the Wheel – $150 (cost may change)
Takes Private Insurance – Does Not Take Medicare
• You may need a behind-the-wheel evaluation, which includes simple neighborhood driving and progresses (when safety allows) to highway driving.
• You may need specialty testing and training with car adaptations and equipment (i.e. lift, spinner knob, left foot accelerator, or hand controls).
• Your case manager can provide you with information on topics like how to obtain disability plates for your vehicle and arranging alternative methods of transportation
• Once you have completed a clinical evaluation, and received a “Vehicle Modification and Adaptive Equipment Prescription for Driving and/or Transportation” from a Licensed Driver Instructor, you will need to take the prescription to a licensed dealership to have an adaptive equipment installed on your vehicle.
Authorized Dealer in Cincinnati:
American Bus & Accessories
PHONE: 800-582-7118 / 513-821-3220
WEBSITE: www.american-bus-inc.com
123 CityCentre Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45216
FAX: 513-679-4424
(Estimated cost for left foot accelerator – $600-$800). Check with your individual insurance company for coverage.
•The Licensed Driver Instructor will also submit the recommendation for a drivers test to the Ohio Department of Public Safety Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) who will invite you to take a Driving Test and Maneuverability Exam.
•Prior to taking a Driving / Maneuverability Exam, the BMV will first send a request for Statement of Physician form, (BMV 2310A) with an instruction letter regarding completing the form for you and your physician.
•After the BMV receives the “Request for Statement of Physician” form with an ok from the physician to operate a motor vehicle, the BMV will set up an appointment for the exam at a Driver License Exam Station.
*Information taken from Wellness Information & Tools for Health (WITH)