Driving

Q. Can the person drive when they go home?

After a significant brain injury, upon notification by the treating doctor, a NSW driver's licence will be suspended by the RTA, until driving performance can be re-assessed. This notification is mandatory under the NSW RTA regulations.

A traumatic brain injury increases the likelihood of an epileptic fit. The doctor is, therefore, unable to give medical clearance for the driving assessment for at least 3 months from the date of the brain injury. Vision will need to be assessed as this may impact on the ability to drive. Impaired memory, slowing of responses and behaviour difficulties can adversely affect a person's ability to drive a motor vehicle.

S/he will need a re-assessment to identify whether alterations to the car are needed because of physical problems and whether s/he is able to cope with the demands of driving a vehicle in all situations. After a medical clearance is given by the treating doctor, an assessment is performed by an Occupational Therapist specially trained in driver rehabilitation. At the completion of the assessment, recommendations are made about the person's safety and ability to drive.

Last modified: Thursday, 20 April 2006