For most people, personal transport is an essential part of life, representing independence and autonomy.

Our professionals recognise this and apply a client focused approach that acknowledges an individual’s unique abilities and goals. Utilising appropriate resources for assessment, we provide clear objective recommendations on safe driving.

Certain medical conditions can affect our ability to think or react quickly and to manage the usual controls of a car, this can influence our capacity to respond, especially in emergency situations. Often when we are driving we see other drivers do foolish or dangerous things, for example a U turn in a busy street or going too fast in a parking lot. When driving a car we must be able to react rapidly to these unexpected events.

OTDAS is Dunedin's only occupational therapy service dedicated to the assessment and rehabilitation of drivers and passengers. The service is provided by Barbara Steptoe, who has over 25 years experience assessing the impact of medical problems, injury and/or the ageing process on ability to drive and use transport.  

A general practitioner may refer to our service to determine whether health issues or concerns are impacting on driving safety. Referrals from other health professionals, disability services, family/whanau or self referrals are also welcomed. Whenever possible we enhance your motoring safety by offering remedial training or recommending modifications that will improve driving potential. 

The service is located in Dunedin, assessments can also be provided at other locations throughout Otago and Southland.