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Epilepsy and Driving: A Survey of Canadian Neurologists

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 September 2015

Richard S. McLachlan  and
Michael W. Jones
Richard S. McLachlan*
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University of Western Ontario
Michael W. Jones
Affiliation:
Department of Medicine (Neurology), University of British Columbia
*
London Health Sciences Centre, University Campus, 339 Windermere Road, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5A5
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Abstract:

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Background:

A seizure is the most common cause of loss of driving privileges for medical reasons but there is variability in how physicians and the authorities who regulate driving approach this issue.

Methods:

A questionnaire regarding epilepsy and driving was sent to all adult neurologists in Canada (n = 494).

Results:

Of 289 (59%) neurologists responding, 50% usually report patients with seizures to the department of motor vehicles compared to only 4% for stroke/TIA, 26% for dementia and 8% for other neurologic disorders (p < 0.0001). In the five provinces with mandatory reporting laws, seizures were reported most of the time by 84% compared to only 19% in the five provinces with discretionary reporting (p < 0.0001). Nationwide, 44% agreed with mandatory reporting but this also differed in provinces with and without mandatory reporting legislation (63% vs. 37%, p < 0.0001). Only 49% agreed with the current recommendation of at least one year seizure free interval before resuming driving.

Conclusions:

Seizures are disproportionately reported compared to other neurological conditions. Many neurologists disagree with the recommended Canadian standards for duration of driving restriction after seizures. Variability in the attitude and practice of neurologists in regard to reporting of seizures is confirmed.

Type
Neurological Practice
Information
Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences , Volume 24 , Issue 4 , November 1997 , pp. 345 - 349
Copyright
Copyright © Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation 1997

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