CDME Module 6: Neurological (see Module 5 – Musculoskeletal for Neuromuscular conditions)-Expert Panel Recommendations. Stroke and Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Safety

Pdf Summary

The document summarizes the findings and recommendations of a panel of experts on stroke and commercial motor vehicle (CMV) driver safety. The panel examined the current physical qualification standards and guidelines for CMV drivers who have experienced a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke. <br /><br />The findings of the evidence report show that individuals who have experienced a TIA are at an increased risk for future stroke. The risk is highest immediately following a TIA and decreases over time. The evidence also suggests that individuals who have experienced a stroke are at an increased risk of a motor vehicle crash, but the size of this risk could not be determined. The panel recommends that individuals who have experienced a single TIA or stroke be excluded from driving a CMV until they have been free from recurrent events for at least one year. They should also undergo a thorough evaluation of their physical and mental function by a qualified neurologist, including an on-road driving evaluation. <br /><br />The panel also recommends that individuals who experience a seizure following a stroke should not be certified as physically qualified to drive a CMV. It is recommended that individuals who have been certified as physically qualified to drive a CMV after a TIA or stroke be recertified on an annual basis, including a thorough neurologic assessment and consideration of driving history. The panel suggests that neuropsychological tests can predict driving ability after stroke, but on-road evaluation should remain the gold standard for certification. <br /><br />The panel emphasizes the need for further research on the association between TIA/stroke and CMV driver crash safety, as well as the effectiveness of specific tests in predicting driving performance after TIA/stroke. Overall, the recommendations aim to ensure the safety of CMV drivers who have experienced a TIA or stroke.

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Akinwuntan, A, et. al.
January 2009

Keywords

stroke

commercial motor vehicle

driver safety

physical qualification standards

transient ischemic attack

motor vehicle crash

driving evaluation

seizure

neurologic assessment

driving performance