Driving Connections is a collaborative effort between The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis, Washinton University School of Medicine, and Independent Drivers, LLC. The objective of the assessment is to provide driving evaluations for those with medical impairments or disabilities that may impact driving ability and safety.
At the Driving Center, we conduct an extensive driving assessment both on and off the road. Following the assessment, driving recommendations are provided to you and your physician. Regardless of the results, our sensitive and experienced staff will assist you every step of the way.
While our goal is to help individuals drive independently, we also educate those who can no longer drive safely by providing resources and options to remain active in their community.
Washington Unversity School of Medicine may have ongoing research devoted to issues with driving.
If you would like information on our current studies or would like to learn more about related research opportunities, contact our research office at 314.362.0881.
We appreciate your interest in research at Washington University School of Medicine. |
You'll need:
- Physician's referral and medical history
- Valid driver's license or permit
Driving assessments are not usually covered by insurance. For questions about cost and payment options, or to schedule an appointment, contact our office at 314.658.3846 or visit our website.
Evaluation of Physical Abilities
- Vision
- Functional Ability
- Muscle Strength
- Coordination
Evaluation of Cognitive Abilities
- Reaction Time
- Attention
- Memory
- Problem-Solving
- Language Skills
Knowledge of Traffic Safety Laws
- Compliance to rules of the road
Evaluation of In-Car Driving Ability
- Appropriate driving speeds and control of the car
- Ability to identify, avoid and / or problem-solve hazarous traffic situations
- Ability to safely operate and control a car in varied traffic situations
- Timely responses to traffic or road changes
Comprehensive driving assessments are completed by licensed occupational therapists specializing in driving education and safety.
These clinicians are dedicated to help determine an individual's ability to drive safely. When needed, referrals are made to medical specialists, neuropsychologists and rehabilitation therapists.
Driving impairments can affect individuals at any age and can be the results of:
- Medical conditions affecting the ability to move and / or react quickly
- Mental conditions affecting the brain's ability to think, remember or pay attention
- Problems with sensation
- Difficulty with movement or joint stiffness
- Vision problems
No one wants to lose their independence. For many adults, driving is a powerful symbol of mobility and freedom. But sometimes, situations force us to adapt. How will you know if you should keep driving? Changes in physical and mental abilities require sensitive, and comprehensive assessment to determine if an individual can safely remain behind the wheel. Driving Connections provides answers to your driving questions.
Our office is located near Barnes-Jewish Hospital in a separate office building with convenient parking available.
To get to our office, take Kingshighway North to Forest Park Avenue. Turn east (right) approximately one block, then tun south (right) on Taylor Avenue. Go one block and turn east (left) on Duncan Avenue. The Rehabilitation Institute is approximately one half block on the left and the parking lot is immediately on the right across the street.
