cerebral palsy and driving

[bisarc]

I am a 23 year old recent grad of Edinboro University of PA. I have been trying to past my drivers test for a while now. I took a drivers evaluation and was cleared to drive. I then started taking driving lessons from a rehabilitative instructor. I can drive under 30 MPH just fine. However, when I go higher then this the car starts to drift in the lane. I cannot seem to keep the car straight at higher speeds. I do have a weak right eye (that comes back to the middle when my left eye is covered). I have seen a doctor about the eye problem but, he said he does not think this is the the cause of the problem. Is there anyone who can help me figure out what may be causing this problem? Any help would be great thanks,

Marc
Bisarc@hotmail.com

[blackbelt]

I am 24 years old and I have mild cp. It took me a while for me to learn to drive. It was really difficult. It will probably just take you some time to get used to controlling the car. I am still sort of drift when I change radio stations going at any speed, look over my shoulder to see oncoming traffic before switching lanes, and on the highways.
I used to drift badly if there was no curb on the right side of the lane. This has greatly improved.
Be patient with yourself. It will just take some time.

Also, I had right eye weakness. It was corrected by surgery. I have heard that when little kids have eye problems they are really clumsy. Maybe your eye is the source of your problems. Have you tried getting a second opinion?
By the way, it took me three times to pass my driver's test. You can do it!

Blackbelt

[This message has been edited by blackbelt (edited 06-21-2001).]

[co840]

I am pleading ignorance on CP and driving and am looking for help. I am editing a booklet on financial issues of independnce aimed at young adults with CP, written in collaboration with the United Cerebral Palsy Association. My personal experience is that everyone I know with CP is unable to drive. The booklet mentioned having money to buy a car. I would like to know what percentage of young adults with CP are able to drive. I initially questioned the author as possibly suggesting a use for money that will create frustration rather than help. Then I realized I just don't know to what extent this is an issue. Since I like to come from a position of knowledge, I am asking for your input to help me understand the realities of CP and driving. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

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Mandell

[This message has been edited by co840 (edited 12-10-2002).]

[bisarc]

Drop me an email and I will be glad to give ya some info........thanks
Marc

Bisarc@hotmail.com

[Shaman]

OK Marc, now you have me dying to know- Did you get your license?

To answer the other poster, I have mild CP and a license with no restrictions. I know other people who have CP, and those who are able to live alone, have licenses. Some of them have been restricted to driving only automatics and/or use of modified vehicles (additional hand controls), but every one of them cherishes the privilege of driving.


I suggest exploring other aspects of the issue as well. Money for the car is important, but so is having someone knowledgable regarding the DMV rules for qualifying for a license and having access to folks to modify cars and teach you how to operate the new controls.

Shaman