Epilepsy Seizures and Driving
Driving with epilepsy means balancing the need for independence against the need for safety.
We would all enjoy the freedom of being able to travel independently whenever we need to. For this reason, many of us rely predominantly on cars to get to work, school, shopping, and social events. Therefore, for many young adults, obtaining a driver's license is very important.
Watching your child have his or her first seizure was probably one of the most frightening moments of your life. Finding out that your child has epilepsy may have been another one. The future may suddenly seem terrifying and uncertain for both your child and your whole family. But as you may already know, the news is not nearly as bad as it sounds. Here are some things to keep in mind if your child has epilepsy: Most children who have a seizure don't have another one. Most children...
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Each state has individual driving regulations. Those with epilepsy are required to report their condition to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). However, states differ regarding the identity of the person required to do the reporting. Some states require the doctor to contact the DMV. Other states require the patient to sign a simple form at the time of application for a license or at the time of license renewal, declaring that they will notify the DMV of changes in their health status or driving ability.
When a person with epilepsy wishes to drive for the first time, an application will need to be filled out. When someone who already holds a driver's license is newly diagnosed with epilepsy, that person is responsible to notify the proper authority.
Individuals with uncontrolled seizures have a higher risk of an accident if they drive. That is why doctors advise patients with seizures that they should not drive until their seizures are under reasonable control. If a well-controlled patient has a seizure after the doctor changes the medication, the patient may or may not be able to continue driving.
Seizures are unpredictable and even a small seizure at the wrong time can lead to an injury or death. The best solution, if possible, is to get the seizures under control. To do this, work together with your doctor to get on the right treatment and to honestly discuss your seizures with him or her.
Information is subject to change. Please contact your state's DMV office for the most current information.
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