Epilepsy and driving

• Main Authors: Matej Mavrič, Črt Zavrnik, Marjan Bilban, Jože Grošelj
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Slovenian Medical Association 2015-05-01
• Series: Zdravniški Vestnik
• Subjects: epileptic seizure; road traffic accident; antiepileptic drugs; driving license; legislation
• Online Access: http://vestnik.szd.si/index.php/ZdravVest/article/view/1182

Epilepsy poses a risk for all participants in road traffic; therefore people with epilepsy do not meet the criteria for an unlimited driving license. Their driving is affected not only by epileptic seizures causing impaired consciousness and involuntary movements, but also by antiepileptic drugs with their many unwanted affects. The experts have not yet agreed on whether people with epilepsy have an increased risk of experiencing a road traffic accident. However, recent data suggests that the overall risk is lower compared to other medical conditions. Scientific evidence forms the basis of legislation, which by limiting people with epilepsy, enables all participants in road traffic to drive in the safest possible environment. The legislation that governs epilepsy and driving in Slovenia has been recently thoroughly reformed and thus allows a less discriminatory management of people with epilepsy. Although people with epilepsy experience many issues in their daily life, including their personal relationships and employment, they often list the need for driving as a top concern in surveys. General physicians play an important role in managing the issues of people with epilepsy.