Areas of interest
I’ve had an amputation – can I still drive?
In a country as vast as Australia, driving is an important way for us to travel, go to and from work, visit friends, shop, and remain active in the community. Most importantly, driving means independence.
Many people who have undergone amputation/s can still drive if they are deemed fit to do so. The first step in regaining your driver’s license post-amputation, is to see your doctor. Your doctor can assess your ability to drive and may need you to have some health tests to determine this. The purpose of these tests is to make sure that it’s safe for you and safe for other road users. The rules and requirements differ in each Australian state and territory. Your doctor will be able to tell you what’s required and refer you to other professionals if you’re required to have further testing, before contacting your local road transport authority.
If I get my license back, do I need to have my vehicle modified?
The need for vehicle modifications can depend on a number of factors.
If you have lost your left leg then chances are that no modifications will need to be made to your vehicle. If you have a manual car, and are a below knee amputee and want to continue to drive that car, you may need to pass a driving test to prove that you are safe on the road.
If you have had a right leg amputation you may be required to have a left foot accelerator fitted to your vehicle. You also may be required to drive an automatic only car. People who wish to drive a non-modified vehicle will need to pass a test proving that they can do so.
If you have double below knee amputations, you may choose to drive with hand controls and/or request to be tested using your prosthesis. In some cases people with both a below and/or above right knee amputation can request to be tested to drive an unmodified car.
If you have had an upper limb amputation you may be required to be tested and drive with a spinner knob, have one fitted to your vehicle and use it when driving.
To learn about car modifications, tests and requirements, speak to an occupational therapist.
What types of vehicles can be modified?
Most automatic vehicles can be modified for both upper and lower limb amputees. For those of you who are motorbike enthusiasts, some motorbike can also be modified to suit amputee riders. Depending on the funding scheme you are connected to, it may want to know the age of the vehicle and if it is in roadworthy condition before they approve funding for any modifications.
What kind of vehicle modifications are available?
Who can assist you with car modification information?
An Occupational Therapist (OT) specialised in driver assessment and training can assist you in several ways:
If you need to find an occupational therapist with skills in driver training in your state or territory you can visit www.otaus.com.au and then search 'Find an OT.' The website has a list of OTs, complete with contact details, the funding programs they are registered to support. The OT will work with you to determine your needs and requirements and arrange for trials of equipment to make sure they meet your needs.
Can I receive funding for vehicle modifications?
Some funding schemes may cover the cost of vehicle modifications.
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