How to Drive Safely When You Have Health Issues
By Brandi Swieter
Numerous health issues exist that can impact a person's ability to drive. Some require no driving at all while others require conditional licenses with certain restrictions, such as the need for glasses when operating any vehicle. Driving safely even when a person has health issues is possible as long as the right precautions are taken.
Get Regular Assessments
Those who suffer from a medical condition need to have driving assessments done more often than those without. These assessments will help determine the person's ability to drive and see if the illness or issue is worsening. Doctor assessments are also necessary to provide this feedback.
Stick to Driving During the Day
Nighttime driving is a problem for many. Those with glasses may have a difficult time seeing due to the glare from the lights. Even without them, poor eyesight in general contributes to this restriction on licenses. A doctor will specify the need for this restriction and the DMV will follow through by placing it on the license.
Modify the Vehicle
Vehicle modifications are necessary in some cases. An individual who no longer has the ability to use their legs would require a hand-controlled gas and brake system. Someone who struggles to get in and out of the vehicle to begin with may require a lift. These modifications will make it easier and safer to drive.
Limit Driving Time
People who are prone to feeling unwell during particular times of the day should avoid driving at these times. If someone tends to feel dizzy in the early morning hours, then limiting driving time to the rest of the day would be best. It's important that anyone, health issues or not, only drive when they feel perfectly capable of doing so.
Use Public Transportation
For those times when driving would be unsafe to do, public transportation is available. Buses run through Decatur via the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. Three transit stations are available throughout the city. Decatur has been deemed Georgia's Most Walkable City due to the abundance of pedestrian and bicycle pathways and close proximity of shops and restaurants.
Driving can be dangerous; operate a vehicle with health issues impairing your ability and it makes it even more so. Anyone who deals with a disease or impairment needs to report this to their licensing bureau and their doctors to find the best course of action. Keeping the roads safe for everyone is the first priority.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Decatur, Ga.