Citation

Hames LN. J. Traffic Med. 1976; 4(4): 62-63.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1976, International Association for Accident and Traffic Medicine)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

They [physicians] can see the handwriting on the wall. They know that sooner or later their active cooperation with licensing agencies in identifying and controlling medically impaired drivers will be expected, or demanded, in every state.

THIS STATEMENT was made by Richard H. Austin, Michigan Secretary of State, last February at a physician reporting conference in Atlanta sponsored by the American Medical Association and the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators. If the words "or demanded" are not sufficient to frighten or at least interest physicians, here is how the above quotation continues:

They know that either way, their involvement will mean more paperwork, another area of knowledge in which to stay current, more responsibility, more time with certain patients, and, probably, somewhat higher malpractice insurance rates.

To put this problem in proper perspective, it must be pointed out that the laws of most states already require licensing agencies to...


The author gives evidence to suggest that physical and mental impairment is a serious factor in road accidents. However it is often difficult to recognise the impairment and licensing authorities sometimes have to wait months or years before it is discovered. Most authorities are required to determine safe driving performance and try to set up criteria to identify points at which physical and mental impairment become critical. Physicians should only be asked to report conditions that are serious. Driving licences should be renewed in person. Advisory boards should offer guidance and advice to the licensing agency. The public should be made more aware of the relationship of impairment with driving safety. /TRRL/

Language: en

Keywords

Accident; Crashes; Driver; Driver licenses; Drivers; Hazards; Highway safety; Physicians; Risk; United States; Crash causes; Health; Standards; Legislation; Driver licensing; Diseases and medical conditions; Medical examinations and tests; Psychosis; USA; Advisory groups; Driving licence; Illness; Medical examination; Mental illness