Driving issues in epilepsy: past, present, and future

Abstract

Driving restrictions for people with seizure disorders are intended to ensure the public's safety, but driving is of such great importance in the United States that the imposed restrictions also may unduly harm the welfare of these individuals. Because driving restrictions historically have been based more on expert opinion than sound scientific evidence, the appropriateness and application of standards for licensing drivers with seizures continue to raise questions and concerns, as does the role physicians should have in the process. Driving is an important and complex practical concern for physicians who care for people with epilepsy or who may serve as consultants to regulatory authorities, requiring them to be well informed about the relevant issues to properly manage their patients and to protect themselves against lawsuits.