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How ADHD Medication Relates to Auto Accidents

It appears that taking medication for ADHD can greatly increase concentration and reduce distraction levels.

A recently published study has found that the rate of motor vehicle accidents involving people with ADHD is massively reduced when these people are taking medication for their ADHD. It was a huge study involving more than 2.3 million people. It appears that taking medication for ADHD can greatly increase concentration and reduce distraction levels.

If you have ADHD then it may be worth having a word with your doctor to see if they think your driving ability could benefit if you take medication. Of course, if you already take medication for your ADHD it’s really important to keep taking it regularly. Don’t skip a tablet because you feel you don’t need it right now, and try not to forget to take them either.

woman speaking with her doctor

Results of the study

The study took information from 2.3 million people over the age of 18 who had ADHD. Around 84% of respondents were currently taking medication for their ADHD. The results were very interesting. It was found that males with ADHD had a 38% lower chance of being involved in a car crash if they were taking their ADHD medication than if they didn’t take their medication. The results were even more impressive for women, with them having a 42% lower risk of an accident while taking their medication.

Why does taking medication for ADHD make any difference to the driving ability of a patient with ADHD? Well it’s most likely to come down to concentration and focusing. Many people with ADHD find it hard to concentrate. They may have a short attention span and can easily be distracted. Ask any car crash attorney and they will tell you that many car accidents happen quite simply because the driver has been distracted or has lost concentration. Addressing this lack of ability to concentrate is paramount in avoiding accidents for people with ADHD. While your driving skills may be impeccable, no matter how skilled you are, you can still make a mistake if you are not fully focused on the road and on your driving.

Seek help

If you are reading this and you have ADHD, don’t worry. We’re not trying to frighten you. However, if you’ve read this and it has got you thinking that while you’re a good driver, your focus and concentration could be lacking a little, then it’s time to do something about it. Don’t wait until something bad happens. Don’t wait until you or someone else gets injured, or worse happens simply because your mind wasn’t on the road. Visit your doctor and discuss your concerns. They will then either be able to set your mind at ease and let you know that your concentration levels are just fine, or they may be able to prescribe you medication that will help you to focus when you are driving.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by another driver, you should seek legal advice from a competent St. Louis auto accident attorney. Call (314) 361-4242 to set up a free case evaluation.
Updated: March 30, 2018