Driver Rehabilitation and Fleet Safety Services (DRFSS)
www.driverrehab.com.au
ph: +61 2 9351 9331
This program has been running with the University of Sydney for the last 12 years. It provides driving assessment and rehabilitation, programs for corporate fleets and training for occupational therapists and driving instructors. The service is staffed by Bernadette Walsh, Trinity Glendenning and Beth Cheal, occupational therapists who are qualified in driver rehabilitation. Lynnette Kay is currently conducting research into the driving assessment process and client outcomes. We have a team of experienced driving instructors and other consultant specialists, including an orthoptist specialising in visual deficits, if required.
Driver Rehabilitation
Who can drive?
Driving for most Australians is an activity of daily living. We rely on driving for our independence to meet our social, recreational and vocational needs. There are very few people who cannot drive. People with physical, psychological or cognitive problems resulting from car accidents, work injuries, or other disabilities have regained their independence through driving. Clients with amputations, head injuries, phobias and spinal injuries have successfully learnt to drive again.
Benefits for drivers
After illness or injury, returning to driving is an important part of any rehabilitation program. A person's ability to drive will:
- increase educational and vocational opportunities
- assist in rapid return to work
- improve independence and mobility
- enhance self-esteem
- improve social and recreational opportunities.
What we provide
DR&FSS provides assessment, rehabilitation and training for people in relation to driving. Our goal is to assist people to resume or commence driving safely and legally. We also provide assessment and training in driving heavy vehicles, buses, forklifts and other work vehicles.
Fleet Safety Services
We also provide screening programs for corporate fleets to improve driver safety reducing accident and incident rates. Education on issues such as driving behaviour, fatigue and defensive driving is provided for employees.
Training
DR&FSS provides post graduate training for occupational therapists in "Driver Assessment and Training" recognised by the RTA and advanced courses for occupational therapists and driving instructors.
Courses for senior drivers are also run in conjunction with local councils.