CDME Module 7: Psychological-Opinions of Expert Panel, Psychiatric Disorders and Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Safety

Pdf Summary

This document is a summary of a report titled "Psychiatric Disorders and Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Safety," which was presented to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in August 2009. The report was prepared by a panel of experts in psychiatry and occupational medicine. <br /><br />The report addresses several key questions regarding the relationship between psychiatric disorders, medication use, and the safety of commercial motor vehicle drivers. <br /><br />Key findings from the report include:<br />- There is inconclusive evidence concerning the increased crash risk for individuals with psychiatric disorders. However, the possibility of increased risk cannot be ruled out.<br />- Benzodiazepine use is associated with an increased risk of a motor vehicle crash. This risk is particularly high during the first week of use and among individuals under 40 years of age.<br />- Antipsychotic and antidepressant use may be associated with increased crash risk, but more research is needed to confirm these findings.<br />- Individuals with traits associated with personality disorders, such as aggression, hostility, impulsivity, and disregard for law, are at an increased risk of a motor vehicle crash.<br /><br />The report also makes several recommendations, including the need for additional medical and psychiatric evaluation for individuals with certain psychiatric disorders, the prohibition of driving for individuals taking benzodiazepines, and the creation of a national database to track CMV driver medical history and medication use.<br /><br />Overall, the report highlights the complex relationship between psychiatric disorders, medication use, and commercial motor vehicle driver safety, and emphasizes the need for further research and evaluation in this area.

Asset Caption

Metzner J, et. al.
Presented to FMCSA August 13, 2009

Keywords

Psychiatric Disorders

Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Safety

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Panel of Experts

Psychiatry

Occupational Medicine

Crash Risk

Benzodiazepine Use

Antipsychotic Use

Antidepressant Use