Clinical Driver Assessments

Central Vermont Medical Center collaborates with The University of Vermont Medical Center to provide clinical assessment of high risk drivers.

The Clinical Driving Assessment program offered by CVMC Rehabilitation Therapy services, in collaboration with the Driver Rehabilitation program at The University of Vermont Medical Center, is a comprehensive clinical assessment for those who may be at a high risk for an automobile crash.

What is involved in a driver’s evaluation?

An occupational therapist, trained in the clinical driver evaluation, determines the effects of one’s medical condition, medication needs and the functional limitations they may present on the road. A client attends both the clinical and on-the-road assessment with another licensed driver who may act as a coach.

The evaluation involves:

  • Visual screening.
  • Standardized assessments of cognition and memory, range of motion, muscle strength and sensation, and visual perceptual skills.

Who is referred for a driving evaluation?

Experienced drivers who have a valid driving license, with a referral from their physician, whom may have a condition that affects their cognitive/decision making skills such as:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries
  • Strokes/cerebral vascular accident
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Dementia
  • Mild Cognitive Impairment

Warning signs a person may need a driver assessment:

  • Drives too quickly or too slowly
  • Needs help or instructions from passengers
  • Ignores signs and signals
  • Neglects to use turn signals
  • Makes slow or poor decisions
  • Easily frustrated or confused
  • Has a pattern of getting lost, even in familiar areas
  • Accidents or near misses
  • Drifts across lane markings into other lanes
  • Has poor road position or makes wide turns
  • Misses important things like signals, signage, or pedestrians
  • Failure to yield
  • Difficulty interpreting traffic situations

On-the-Road Assessment at UVM Medical Center

UVM Medical Center provides on-the-road assessment that can determine a driver’s ability to handle the vehicle in a variety of traffic situations, evaluate visual and cognitive training needs, and assess/determine the need for adaptive equipment.

The University of Vermont Medical Center
Driver Rehabilitation Program
792 College Parkway
Medical Office Building, Suite 102
Colchester, VT 05446
802-847-3140 (phone)
802-847-5151(fax)

Insurance Information

Some insurance providers cover the evaluation. If your patient’s insurance does not cover driver rehabilitation services, private pay can be arranged.

Rehabilitation Therapy Main Location Building Exterior

CVMC Rehabilitation Therapy - Berlin

Rehabilitation Therapy - Berlin
1311 Barre Montpelier Road
Berlin, VT 05602

Fax

802-371-5350

Hours

Monday:
7:00 am-6:00 pm
Tuesday:
7:00 am-6:00 pm
Wednesday:
7:00 am-6:00 pm
Thursday:
7:00 am-6:00 pm
Friday:
7:00 am-5:30 pm