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This editorial first appeared in the Albuquerque Journal. It was written by editorial page staff and is unsigned as it represents the opinion of the newspaper rather than the writers

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Monday, June 08, 2009

Don't Leave Disabled Drivers Stuck in Park



    For many, driving is a chore, just one more errand to run or chauffeur service to perform. But for the people who have lost that ability and its inherent independence to a medical occurrence like a stroke, it's one of the great losses they will face.
        The Governor's Commission on Disability says they can get used to it.
        Despite three years of groundwork to bring an adaptive driving program to New Mexico — we're one of only seven states that don't have one in the private or public sectors — the commission terminated the therapist who had worked to set up the program.
        That means the 150 people on its waiting list can keep on waiting. Probably forever.
        Commission Director Jim Parker, who is disabled, knows personally how important the freedom to drive is — he can. But he says his agency is too small to handle what's expected to be a high demand for evaluation and training. "No other agency or department at this time wants to take the program on," he says, especially without adequate funding.
        But lawmakers appropriated money for the modified cars and a full-time position, and there's apparently a $19,000 grant available to keep the wheels greased. Perhaps Gov. Bill Richardson can map out a plan to get taxpayers' initial investment in gear.
        Some stroke survivors undoubtedly give up the dream of driving and rely on family or friends or taxpayer-funded public transit. Those with resources can go out of state for the re-training. Others get behind the wheel whether it's safe or not and cobble together a system that works — or doesn't. But — especially with a program almost in place — the ones who can drive safely should get help.
       

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