Is There A Link Between ADHD And Driving?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, can be considered a serious neurological condition that usually impacts the brain and central nervous system. ADHD is often associated with inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, which can impact a person’s ability to be a safe driver. Drivers with ADHD tend to be more likely to experience traffic accidents, which can indicate the need to seek treatment for ADHD symptoms in order to drive safely. This may involve therapy, medication, and effective coping skills.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD can impact one’s ability to concentrate, a skill that tends to be crucial to driving. In general, ADHD’s core symptoms are inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The symptoms of this disorder are often first noticed during childhood but can persist into adulthood.
Those with ADHD can experience other conditions simultaneously, such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorder. ADHD can be misunderstood and stigmatized, which may contribute to low self-esteem in those living with this condition.
Some symptoms of ADHD can include the following:
- Difficulty paying attention
- Difficulty following instructions
- Disorganization
- Inability to adhere to a schedule or keep appointments
- Struggling with deadlines
- Fidgeting
- Impulsive and high-risk behaviors
- Restlessness
- Poor sleep
- Co-occurrence with other conditions, such as anxiety and depression
Can ADHD affect driving?
Driving can be an important activity for many of us, as well as a serious responsibility that typically requires great care and focus. Due to the detrimental impact ADHD can have on one’s abilities to pay attention and drive without distraction, there may be a link between ADHD and greater risk when operating a motor vehicle.
Drivers with ADHD may have a higher likelihood of getting into motor vehicle accidents, receiving traffic tickets, driving distracted, and making riskier driving moves. Those with ADHD may be more likely to attempt multitasking, such as looking at their cell phone while driving.
In addition, drivers with ADHD might be more inclined to speed or misuse substances that can impair one’s ability to operate a vehicle. This can lead to accidents that may result in injury or death. Those with ADHD may also be more likely to drive without a license.
According to a 2015 study comparing the driving skills of those with ADHD and those without the condition, drivers with ADHD usually scored worse on driving skills assessments. It can be crucial for those with ADHD to understand the impact their symptoms can have on driving in order to practice safer habits.
Is it safe to drive with ADHD?
Drivers with ADHD can improve their driving skills over time. Despite the heightened risk those with ADHD may face when behind the wheel, it can be possible for drivers with ADHD to drive safely.
Poor and distracted driving can often result in financial hardships and other unwanted disasters, ranging from traffic tickets to car accidents, so it can be crucial for all drivers to develop good driving skills. One option for those with ADHD to explore may be doctor-prescribed medication, which may improve one’s ability to focus when on the road. This can be one reason it’s often crucial for those with ADHD to seek treatment.
ADHD tips for safer driving
While medication may be one option to improve driving skills and focus for those with ADHD, other strategies may also be helpful.
Some tips for safer driving can include the following:
- Drive in less stressful environments with fewer distractions, such as back roads.
- Use a driving simulator to improve skills.
- Drive with a passenger who can support you.
- Reduce distractions like cell phones.
- Consider driving a vehicle with a manual transmission to remain engaged as you drive.
How therapy can help
Therapy can be a great resource for individuals with ADHD, whether or not they operate motor vehicles. Seeking therapy from a licensed professional can help individuals identify and address symptoms that may impact their driving abilities and other parts of their everyday lives
Additionally, ADHD often coincides with anxiety, and many with ADHD might experience anxiety related to driving. Therapists can help you manage and alleviate anxiety symptoms with helpful coping strategies.
While attending therapy in person may be a good choice for many, connecting with a licensed medical professional through online therapy may be helpful for those with ADHD who struggle to keep track of their schedules and maintain appointments.
Research suggests that online therapy can be as effective as face-to-face therapy for addressing a wide range of mental health disorders, including ADHD. A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis stated that online therapy could effectively improve attention deficit and social function in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Takeaway
Drivers with ADHD may have a heightened risk of traffic tickets, poor driving skills, traffic law violations, and car accidents. Therefore, those with ADHD may need to take special care to improve their overall driving safety. Doctor-prescribed medication, online or in-person therapy, and strategies like reducing distractions and choosing less stressful routes may be helpful.
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