Validation of Methods to Assess Return to Driving Decisions after TBI and Development of a Driving Intervention Pilot

The importance of return to driving (RTD) and the risks involved warrant effective and timely assessment of driving skills, given potential impact on community reintegration, health and function. Virtual reality assessment utilizing a driving simulator has numerous benefits in real-world situations, but use for those with TBI is still in its early stages, and in need of further research on use in relation to on-road performance, identifying deficits, and developing intervention strategies. This study will utilize a state-of-the-art driving simulator that is readily available and affordable. Goals are to: validate a driving simulator assessment using data from on-road driving evaluations and a neuropsychological test battery; predict driving outcomes at one year post-injury, based on earlier assessments; develop guidelines for clinicians in making decisions regarding RTD; and develop an intervention addressing specific weaknesses identified in the simulation assessment. At three months post-injury, participants will complete the TBIMS Driving Survey, neuropsychological tests, and driving simulator assessment. At six months, participants will complete the same measures and an on-road driving evaluation. The survey will be completed again at 12 months post-injury. Based on study results and stakeholder/expert input, a driving intervention will be developed and piloted in the last two years of funding.