09/12/2021
The single biggest challenge with special needs driver development, is the clients do not understand why programs such as this are so important in their development as a driver. One of our clients, horrific injuries including both legs amputated from a car crash, even though he identified with the need for such a program, his insurance refused. The tact of
"Let's see how they drive on the road and if everything is ok, then we will consider it". is fundamentally flawed.
Their individual challenges highlight the need for specialised driver education, in a controlled environment.
Their sense of apprehension is high, compromising their vision. Often their physical is compromised due to their challenges, so correct training is more imperative, so they are part of the car, not floating around independently. This is all about "Controlled Actions" not "Uncontrolled over Actions."
SO often, the real challenge in their driving is "fear" and the fear is real. the fear of can they do it, what if they cannot, what if they cannot avoid a crash.
Everything they are doing in a day to day life, to keep themselves safe, is compromising vision and planning. That is why this advanced driver development is so critical to their ART of DRIVING and subsequent safety and competence as a driver.
We all universally believe we are above average drivers, but when the community cost of crashes exceeds $36bn pa. there is a fundamental failing in how people are being taught to drive.
That is why Total Driver, are the only provider specialising in the "ART of DRIVING"
On Thursday Total Driver ran a special day for our special needs clients at the RACQ Center for Excellence. It was a great opportunity for them to develop and improve the ART of DRIVING in a controlled environment without the pressure of other cars. We focused on skills such as braking and emergency braking with hand controls, steering techniques, wet and dry weather simulations and also applied skills to road driving with the loop roads and circuits. As an additional benefit, the RACQ generously donated the facility and took them for a 4WD experience and also their simulators. For students such as Bailey, who never thought he could drive, it was an amazing experience, that he got so much out of it. Other clients, such as Mat, who lost both legs in a car crash, we focused on confidence in wet weather and getting his feel back for a car. This was important due to PTSD from his car crash affecting his driving in the wet. Amanda has numerous challenges in managing her CP the day was invaluable for working on techniques to maximise what movement she has, her confidence, and techniques. the benefit on road has been immeasurable. Each one of our clients had special and unique challenges. the day enabled them to receive attention and work away at conquering their challenges in a controlled environment. For all of these people, the challenges they conquer on a daily basis make us all think and reflect on just how fortunate we are. Their drive is inspirational, their achievements put life into perspective.
