Driving is often a critically important aspect of a person’s independence and identity, says Moser. “We strive to strike the optimal balance between respecting a person’s freedom and independence while also protecting them, and others, from harm,” he says.
Avoid starting with a judgment such as, “You’re a bad driver.” Bring up specific observations instead: a missed red light, repeated lane drifting, a new scrape, or getting lost on a familiar trip. Early, respectful conversations are less likely to make the person feel alienated or defensive.
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For example, “I see that you might be having difficulty with some driving tasks. Let’s talk to your doctor to see what [they] recommend,” says Shannon.
Keep the focus on protecting the person with HD, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. At the same time, acknowledge what stopping may cost emotionally and practically, and offer a transportation plan rather than simply asking for the keys, she says.
Moser recommends that a family member occasionally observe the person’s driving, either by riding along or following in another vehicle, and share any concerns with the healthcare team. “Some families assume everything is fine even though no one has actually seen the person drive in months or even longer,” he says.
Family members who are concerned should let the neurologist know before the next appointment so the issue is not missed, Shannon says.
“If I feel they (the person with HD) shouldn’t drive, I tell them this, but if they are unwilling to stop, I order a professional driving assessment; if they fail the assessment, the DMV is informed and the license is canceled,” she says.
In many states, if the family knows the person shouldn’t be driving, an anonymous call to the DMV will result in a notice to the patient that a doctor must complete a form about whether the person should continue to drive, says Shannon.
