Output details

Immobilisation of the knee and ankle and its impact on drivers' braking times: A DRIVING SIMULATOR STUDY

Doctors have no objective information on which to base the advice they give to patients when asked whether or not they may continue to drive while recovering from a limb injury. Currently DVLA legislation on driving simply states the a driver may continue driving if wearing a plaster cast so long as they are able to safely stop their vehicle in an emergency. This study provides the medical profession with data on the impact of wearing a plaster cast upon drivers stopping distances. It is of great significance because it provides data informing professionals in the medical and driving community of the safety implications associated with the wearing of leg casts, providing a basis upon which to provide advice to drivers. The results will also inform practitioners working in the vehicle adaptation industry and those involved in the design of assistive devices. This work was conducted in collaboration with Surgeons and registrars at Sunderland City Hospital, National Health Trust.