Progressive disabilities and driving
Multiple sclerosis, arthritis, Parkinson's disease, loss of hearing or vision and ageing may interfere with their ability to drive safely and ability to control a vehicle safely. They may need to adjust their driving as changes occur.
Temporary disabilities and driving
Disabilities such as broken arms or legs, migraine etc are temporary. One has to make a decision as to their safety and the safety of other road users. Plaster casts may cause discomfort and can cause difficulties in controlling the vehicle. The person will need to be guided by the doctor as to how the plaster cast will affect their ability to operate all vehicle controls
Amputation and driving
An amputee will need to consult with the doctor before driving. Issue a doctor's certificate that states the person should be restricted to an automatic vehicle and/or the vehicle should be fitted with special mechanical devices. One would need help from driving assessment service. There is no difficulty in adapting an artificial limb to a vehicle or a vehicle to a limb.
Deafness and driving
People with hearing impairment have to take a driving test, and if they pass, to get a driving licence. They should try to have additional rear vision mirrors in their vehicles.
Head injury and driving
Following some head injuries, driving may not be permitted for up to two years or longer. A neurologist's advice must be sought as a head injury may:
• Affect co-ordination and reaction time
• Alter vision
• Lead to misjudging distance and speed.
• Alter thinking patterns
• Slow down thinking
Have difficulty in coping with too much sensory information
• Lead to loss of concentration
• Lead to short term memory loss
• Lead to trouble in co-ordinating hand and feet movements
• Lack of ability to steer may be reduced due to muscle weakness
• Problems using foot pedals