by Amy Lane, OTR/L, CDRS, and Guy A. Hanford

Originally published in the Amputee Coalition’s magazine, InMotion in 2012, Reproduced with permission. Visit the Amputee Coalition to learn more about this great organization.

Driving a vehicle is an independent living skill we often take for granted. People who have temporarily or permanently lost the ability to drive realize firsthand the loss of independence, autonomy, and day-to-day functioning. For those attempting to enter, engage, or retain employment, the lack of independent transportation causes a substantial impediment to their vocational pursuits and financial security. Finding a job in today’s economy can be tough. It is even tougher when one lacks transportation.

Returning veterans wounded in the Middle East conflict often experience similar challenges. Limb amputations, burns, brain injury, posttraumatic stress disorder, and other physical, cognitive, and emotional injuries need to be considered in one’s quest for independent transportation. Just as the number of civilians who are unsure about returning to driving after an injury, the thousands of injured returning American troops may not even realize their potential to drive again, unless given the proper evaluation, training, and accessibility equipment options.

Determining Suitable Vehicle Adaptive Equipment

A cost-effective method in determining the most suitable vehicle adaptive equipment is to work with a driver rehabilitation specialist (DRS), who will consider a person’s particular functional needs and abilities. Certified driver rehabilitation specialists (CDRSs) have undergone specialized education and training and have obtained a specialty certification from the Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED). They are knowledgeable in planning, coordinating, and implementing accessible driving services for individuals exploring adaptive equipment and transportation options. While many driver rehabilitation specialists hold certification as a CDRS, certification is not required to practice driver rehabilitation.

Driver evaluation and training programs are offered in a variety of settings, such as rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient therapy departments, university-affiliated programs, state-operated facilities, Veterans Administration (VA) hospitals, or independent private driving schools. Professionals who work in this field often are ADED members and abide by its best practices. Driver rehabilitation programs typically offer comprehensive clinical and behind-the-wheel evaluations. On-road evaluations use information gathered from the clinical assessment and may include adaptive driving equipment if indicated. Additional education, training, and vehicle modification recommendations are completed based on the driver’s performance.

Proper Installation of Vehicle Adaptive Equipment

The installation of adaptive driving equipment and accessible vehicle modifications should be completed by modifiers who adhere to guidelines established by the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA). This organization is dedicated to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities to drive or be transported in vehicles modified with mobility equipment. It is recommended that NMEDA Quality Assurance Program (QAP) participants work with a dealer that is certified by the manufacturers of the equipment to install and service the modifications.

Available Funding Options

Funding options for driver rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and vehicle modifications can be limiting. Insurance companies vary and may reimburse in certain regions and certain situations. It is worth contacting specific insurance companies to investigate if the provider will cover these services. Worker’s compensation or automobile insurance companies may cover the associated costs if these services and vehicle modifications are due to a work-related or automobile-related accident. Vocational rehabilitation provides services to people who have a disability that presents an impediment to employment. These agencies may assist in funding driving-related services for those who have plans to prepare for, enter into, or retain employment.

Opportunities for Veterans

The VA may provide funding for veterans who seek independent transportation options. The VA offers an Automobile Adaptive Equipment (AAE) Program to enable veterans to enter, exit, or operate a motor vehicle. The veterans must be evaluated by a DRS for all vehicle modification needs and AAE needs. For service-connected veterans needing a modified accessible vehicle (for wheelchair or scooter accessibility), the VA recently increased its one-time Automobile Grant Program to $18,900 (now $21,795 as of October 2020). Veterans who think they may qualify are encouraged to contact the prosthetic department at their nearest VA medical center.

Finally, some automobile manufacturers offer rebate programs, up to $1,000, toward the purchase of eligible adaptive mobility equipment for new vehicles. A qualified mobility van dealer can provide further details about the mobility assistance programs and procedures for reimbursement.

Driving and independent transportation is instrumental for one’s participation in life activities. Whether that life role is a student, parent, worker, or active-duty service member, the need and desire for independence remains the same. Adaptive driving equipment and accessible vehicle modifications, with proper education and training, provide a multitude of options for those desiring independent mobility. Collaboration between drivers, family members, healthcare providers, driver rehabilitation specialists, and NMEDA equipment dealers is critical to ensure the safety of those using adapted motor vehicles.

Reproduced with permission. Originally published in the Amputee Coalition’s magazine, InMotion in 2012, Vol 22, Issue 5.