People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have a higher risk of experiencing vehicle accidents, receiving traffic tickets, and driving without a license or on a suspended license, according to the nonprofit Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD).

A 2017 study found that young people with ADHD receive driving licenses less often and at an older age. After getting their licenses, they have a higher risk of vehicle accidents. Study authors noted that further research is necessary to understand the exact mechanisms behind ADHD and vehicle accident risk.

However, individuals with ADHD can work to improve their driving skills and increase their safety on the road.

Some tips to help people with ADHD improve driving skills from the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) include:

  • not eating, drinking, or otherwise multitasking while driving
  • turning off electronic devices, like cellphones, or putting them on silent mode and out of sight
  • minimizing communication with passengers in the car
  • planning the route before traveling, and pulling over safely to check a map or GPS while traveling, if necessary
  • using preset radio stations or audio playlists
  • taking plenty of breaks on long, monotonous car journeys
  • describing aloud what they are doing while driving to help focus attention on the task of driving
  • taking supplemental driving lessons to focus on specific symptoms of ADHD that may affect driving, possibly with an ADHD specialist driving instructor

A person with ADHD should also consider discussing their condition with their vehicle insurance provider, as disclosing this may be mandatory under their state’s motor vehicle insurance requirements. Similarly, they may benefit from additional insurance coverage options.

Treating ADHD can also help prevent symptoms while driving. Treatments for ADHD include medications and psychotherapy.

A person should speak with a doctor if they think they may have ADHD. A healthcare professional can provide accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.