Impaired Drivers & Their Physicians

Not all physicians are in a position to evaluate the extent or effect of a medical condition on a patient’s ability to drive, particularly physicians who treat patients only on a short-term basis. Nor do all physicians necessarily have appropriate training to identify and evaluate physical or mental conditions in relation to the ability to drive. In such situations, it may be advisable to refer a potentially at-risk patient for assessment. 

To serve the interests of their patients and the public, within their areas of expertise physicians should: 

1. Assess at-risk patients individually for medical conditions that might adversely affect driving ability, using best professional judgment and keeping in mind that not all physical or mental impairments create an obligation to intervene. 
2. Tactfully but candidly discuss driving risks with the patient and, when appropriate, the family when a medical condition may adversely affect the patient’s ability to drive safely. Help the patient (and family) formulate a plan to reduce risks, including options for treatment or therapy if available, changes in driving behavior, or other adjustments. 
3. Recognize that safety standards for those who operate commercial transportation are subject to governmental medical standards and may differ from standards for private licenses. 
4. Be aware of applicable state requirements for reporting to the licensing authority those patients whose impairments may compromise their ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. 
5. Prior to reporting, explain to the patient (and family, as appropriate) that the physician may have an obligation to report a medically at-risk driver: 
   1. when the physician identifies a medical condition clearly related to the ability to drive;  
   2. when continuing to drive poses a clear risk to public safety or the patient’s own well-being and the patient ignores the physician’s advice to discontinue driving; or 
   3. when required by law. 
6. Inform the patient that the determination of inability to drive safely will be made by other authorities, not the physician. 
7. Disclose only the minimum necessary information when reporting a medically at-risk driver, in keeping with ethics guidance on respect for patient privacy and confidentiality.