Transportation | Transportation Resources

Transportation

Some persons with brain injury are unable to drive without restrictions or vehicular modification. Many others find that they need to utilize assistive technology or public transportation. This section describes some of the options that persons with disabilities have to get around.

Driving

People use many skills, including attention, visual processing, reaction time, judgement, spatial orientation, and motor skills, when driving a vehicle. A brain injury may greatly impact the way the brain functions related to many skills required for driving. Persons with brain injury should be careful when deciding to continue driving after a brain injury.

Assessing Your Driving Skills

Some providers offer detailed assessment programs where program staff members work with persons who have survived brain injury on and off the road to determine individuals ability to drive. Other programs offer the opportunity to relearn driving skills. Medical doctors are also available to help you make this decision and to assist you in relearning driving abilities.

Modifying Your Vehicle

When physical limitations are the primary restrictions on your driving, there are several ways to modify your vehicle. For example, vans can be modified to fit wheelchairs. Vehicles can be modified so that acceleration and braking controls are located on the steering column as opposed to the floor.

Disabled Parking Permit

Disabled parking is necessary for some persons with brain injury who are able to drive but lack the ability to walk long distances. To learn if you qualify and apply for a disabled parking certificate or license plate, contact the Illinois Department of Public Safety, Driver & Vehicle Services Division.

Survivor ID Cards

Some persons with brain injury have motor and speech impairments that may be misunderstood by a police officer who is unfamiliar with the effects of a brain injury.

A driver with brain injury should be prepared to calmly explain his or her disability to a police officer. You can obtain an identification card explaining that you have survived a brain injury by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: TPN, Attn: ID Cards, P.O. Box 1859, Cumming, GA 30028-1859.

Volunteer Driving Programs

Many counties, community organizations, churches, and the department of Veterans Affairs (VA) set up programs where persons with disabilities are matched up with volunteer drivers. Call your county, local community organization, church or VA to find out where such programs may exist.

Transportation for Seniors

The Senior Help Line can help seniors in all areas of Illinois explore their transportation options. Call (800) 252-8966. The Senior Help Line can also refer you to housing resources for seniors.

Bartering Services for Transportation

Persons with brain injury who are not ready to drive may need to rely on family members, friends, and neighbors to help supplement public transportation services. Friends and neighbors may be more willing to take them around if they are given something in return and reimbursed for gas. For example, they may be able to baby-sit, do yardwork, shovel snow, wash the car, treat the driver to lunch, or knit a sweater in exchange for rides.

Long Distance Traveling Information

Plan in advance when traveling with individuals with disabilities. Transport systems can usually provide printed or voice information about special needs. Assistance may be available at airports and train stations to assist you in locating and arriving at the proper gate and concourse. There are some organizations that can help you with planning your trip.