Epilepsy and driving can sometimes be a dangerous mix. For many, driving is not just a convenience; driving can mean freedom, independence, and economic self sufficiency. While many people with epilepsy are able to drive, it is important to keep in mind some statistics. Between 5-10% of Americans crash a car each year. For people with epilepsy, that number goes up considerably, about 30-50% higher. Although that may sound alarming, the 50% increase is still much lower than those who choose to drink and drive, young male drivers, and even elderly drivers.
It is also important to note that every car crash that a person who has epilepsy is involved in is not because of a seizure. Crashes can happen because of normal causes or because of sleepiness and slower reaction time which can be caused by anti-seizure medications. For those who are having frequent seizures with loss of awareness, it is important for them not to drive.
How to Know When to Drive or Not Drive
What’s known as the “seizure free interval” is a period of time in which people should be free of seizures in order to drive. Many states determine this length of time, anywhere from 3-24 months in most states, although some states allow the person’s physician to make the determination. Most states do make exceptions for people with certain types of seizures, such as: seizures too minor to affect driving ability, seizures with a prolonged & consistent aura or warning sign, and seizures that occur only in an established pattern during sleep.
If you are wondering how a state finds out if a patient has seizures, the burden of reporting them falls on the person having them. Only six states require the physicians to report seizure disorders. Some people are concerned that having the physician report the seizures can lead to distrust between the physician and patient. The patient may be hesitant to tell their physician about the frequency of seizures because they fear losing their license. There are attempts being made to change this so that the physicians do not have to report the seizures. Commercial driving has stricter rules. In the U.S., the rules require federally certified drivers to be seizure-free for at least 10 years and off of seizure medications. There are many doctors who feel that people driving police cars and cabs should also have a longer period of time in which they are seizure free due to the fact that they spend so much time driving.
If you are a person who experiences seizures, there are a few things to think about before you get behind the wheel. First, do not drive until you and your physician have determined it is safe to do so and let your doctor know if your seizure condition has changed for the worse. Second, be aware of your state or national laws regarding driving. Finally, if you feel a seizure coming on while you are driving, it is best to stop in the road and remain in your car. If you are sure you can make it safely, pull to the side of the road.
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