Assessing Fitness to Drive - BiOptic Driving Network

MUSCULO SKELETAL DISORDERS21.3 MEDICAL STANDARDS21.3.1 All patients who have marked reduction in the range of movement of the hips,ankles, knees, shoulders, elbows, wrists, fingers and neck should be assessed by adriving assessor.21.3.2 Patients with a significant problem with muscle power, coordination or limb lossnormally also need an individual driving assessment by an occupational therapist orother driving assessor.21.3.3 The needs of motorcyclists are very different due to the type of controls and task interms of balance and agility. These patients should cooperate with their healthprofessional and get clearance from a driving assessor or the driver licensingauthority before riding.21.3.4 Patients with a plaster cast should refrain from driving until the cast is removed andlimb function has returned. There may be specific exceptions: for example plaster ona left leg in a patient with an automatic car. These will need individual assessment.21.3.5 If the disability permanently impairs the ability to drive safely, please notify the localdriver licensing authority.40