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Effects of upper-limb immobilisation on driving safety
J J Gregory1, A N Stephens, N A Steele
1Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic & District General Hospital, Oswestry SY10 7AG, UK. jjgregory@doctors.org.uk
Injury
|December 17, 2008
Summary
Driving with an immobilized upper limb is complex. While it may not affect general driving, it significantly impairs responses to hazards, indicating a need for cautious medical advice.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Human Factors Engineering
- Traffic Safety
Background:
- Patients frequently inquire about driving safety with upper limb casts.
- Objective data on driving performance with immobilised limbs is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To objectively assess the impact of upper limb immobilisation on driving performance.
- To evaluate driving safety in simulated urban and rural environments with specific hazards.
Main Methods:
- Eight healthy volunteers participated in driving simulations (STISIM 400W).
- Participants completed four 20-minute circuits: two unrestricted and two with below-elbow cast immobilisation (below-elbow cast with thumb free).
- Immobilisation was randomised to the right or left arm, with contralateral wrist immobilisation in a separate circuit.
Main Results:
- Limb immobilisation resulted in more cautious general driving (speed, lateral position) but impaired hazard response.
- Hazard responses showed higher speeds, reduced reaction time, and less steering adjustment during immobilisation.
- Effects were more pronounced with right-arm immobilisation.
Conclusions:
- Upper limb immobilisation has subtle but significant adverse effects on responding to driving hazards.
- Medical advice regarding driving ability with immobilised limbs should be cautious due to these findings.
