Cerebral Palsy (CP) applies to a number of non-progressive motor disorders present from birth. The involvement varies widely from person to person. The person with CP may or may not be a wheelchair user. Frequently special vehicle adaptations are necessary for independent driving. The person with CP may also have impairments in the areas of vision, perception (how the brain interprets what the eyes see) or learning.
Adaptive equipment is frequently used for physical problems. A spinner knob can be attached to the steering wheel to allow controlled steering with the use of one hand. A left gas pedal may be used if a person is unable to use the right foot for gas or brake. Hand controls may be indicated for the person unable to use either foot for gas or brake. Specialized modifications can also allow a person to transfer to the driver seat or drive from the wheelchair in a van or minivan.
Common factors that can affect safe driving:
- Limited range of motion and strength
- Exaggerated startle reflex to loud noise
- Increased muscle tone
- Difficulty in coordinated movements
- Visual impairments (poor acuity)
- Trouble visually scanning or tracking quickly
- Learning difficulties
- Impaired judgment in complex situations
- Slow processing and reaction time
- vision
- perception
- functional ability
- reaction time
- Behind-the-wheel evaluation
If you, or someone you drive with is having difficulty, a driver evaluation may be indicated. We can provide a comprehensive evaluation to determine your ability to drive. 440-449-3300
