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Can People With Epilepsy Drive?
Your driving privileges may change when you receive an epilepsy diagnosis.
According to the Epilepsy Foundation, these regulations vary by state.
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Restrictions usually involve:
Some states may allow you to drive with epilepsy under certain restrictions.
These requirements vary by state.
These may include questions about whether you have ever experienced a loss of consciousness or voluntary movement.
If you have epilepsy, you must disclose this information when applying for a license.
Having epilepsydoes not necessarily mean it’s possible for you to’t obtain a driver’s license.
Some states do not have a defined seizure-free period.
Instead, they evaluate applicants on a case-by-case basis.
Sometimes, a state’s medical advisory board will evaluate the situation and make a decision.
Usually, there are appeals processes in place in case you disagree with their decision.
In addition, specific modifiers may favorably impact decisions about licensure.
Physicians may be fined for failing to report in states requiring reporting.
In addition, they may be charged in a lawsuit if an accident results.
States that require reporting include:
The impetus behind mandatory reporting is to keep you and other people safe.
But reporting is generally a sticky situation because it compromises thedoctor-patient relationship.
Does Seizure Medication Impact Your Driving Ability?
Anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs), also called anti-seizure medications or anticonvulsants, are prescription medications that prevent seizures.
However, the fatal car crash rate was less than 0.1%.
Summary
Having epilepsy doesn’t necessarily mean you’re able to’t drive.
Many states require annual reporting from a physician to maintain your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Certain seizures are more dangerous for driving.
If you have photosensitive epilepsy, certain visual stimuli during driving could trigger a seizure.
Epilepsy Foundation.Driver information by state.
Epilepsy Foundation.Driving and transportation.
2014;30:50-57. doi:10.1016/j.yebeh.2013.09.024
Epilepsy Foundation.Photosensitivity and seizures.
