Car Accident Due to Medical Condition

Certain medical conditions have the potential to significantly impair a driver’s ability to drive safely and may result in a car accident.

If you drive, there’s a good chance you may have done so while not feeling your best. Maybe you had a cold or stayed up too late the night before. Many people have driven when they weren’t feeling 100%. While it may not seem like a big deal, driving when you’re not feeling well can be extremely dangerous. In fact, certain medical conditions have the potential to significantly impair a driver’s ability to drive safely. Here are five of the most common.

Alzheimer’s Disease

According to the CDC, it’s estimated that over 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. People with Alzheimer’s disease may have problems with short-term memory, making it difficult to remember directions or follow a plan. They may also have trouble judging distances and speed and may see or hear things that are not there. If you or someone you know has Alzheimer’s, talk to a doctor about whether driving is still a safe option.

Cataracts

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide and are estimated by the National Eye Institute to affect more than 24.4 million Americans. The condition occurs when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, making it difficult to see clearly. In some cases, cataracts can lead to complete vision loss. When driving, cataracts can make it difficult to see road signs, pedestrians, and other vehicles. This can put both the driver and other road users at risk for accidents. Cataracts can also cause glare and halos around lights, making night driving especially dangerous.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause problems with a person’s vision, making it difficult to see potential hazards on the road. Additionally, diabetes can cause dizziness and fatigue, making it difficult to stay focused while driving. If you have diabetes, it’s important to check your blood sugar often. You should also talk to your doctor about how to stay safe on the road.

Epilepsy

Another medical condition that can impact a person’s ability to drive is epilepsy. Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurrent seizures. The condition can be unpredictable, and the risk of having a seizure while driving is significant. As a result, people with epilepsy are advised to consult with their doctor before getting behind the wheel. 

Macular Degeneration

This is a condition that affects the macula (the central area of the retina). The retina is responsible for providing clear central vision, and people with macular degeneration often experience a gradual loss of central vision. While macular degeneration does not typically cause complete blindness, it can make driving difficult or even impossible. In particular, the condition can make it hard to read street signs and see other cars on the road.

These are just a few medical conditions that can affect your ability to drive safely. If you have any of these conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor about how to stay safe on the road.

Speak With a St. Louis Car Accident Attorney

If you were injured in a car accident and believe the other driver has a medical condition that contributed to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced St. Louis car accident lawyers at The Hoffman Law Firm can help you investigate your claim and obtain the compensation you are legally entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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