Many people have been living an energetic productive life and driving an automobile which provides the capability for individual freedom, self-reliance, control and independence. It is a universal culture in which countless individuals own cars utilized for work and the financial aspects of employment, social inter-actions and performing daily chores of daily life. But driving is a sequence of intricate abilities necessitating specific neuro-muscle motor skills. In the early stages of Parkinson’s disease you may legally possess a license to drive and retain the skills to operate a motor vehicle safely for several years, considering age and over-all physical condition. However Parkinson’s disease is going to vary from person to person.

Many of these symptoms become hazards for driving and have to be closely watched on severity so decisions can be made on when to limit operation of a motor vehicle. An occurrence of a tremor, which tend to be a common symptom of Parkinson’s disease, in the upper body-arms, hands, head and in the legs in the lower body will have an impact on operation of a motor vehicle. Another symptom is rigidity along with slowness of Bradykinesia results in quick jerky movements that can be dangerous to maneuver, operate and control a motor vehicle such as employing the brakes in heavy traffic. Posture issues like slumping and stooped shoulders and a bowing of the head making it extremely challenging to drive safely.

Medications in the initial stages of Parkinson’s disease should decrease the symptoms providing the capability to some individuals the ability to safely drive a motor vehicle without side effects that would make driving a motor vehicle a hazard. However this is exceptionally challenging for a Doctor to prescribe a medication program allowing an individual with early Parkinson’s disease to drive without side effects which may well make driving dangerous. These are discussions that require your Doctor as well as spouse or care partner as it impacts the quality of life which could be in an incredibly negative way.

With the early stages of Parkinson’s disease in the event an individual is assuming on continuing to drive then make a plan of action improving the safety of everyone that includes you, love ones and those other people sharing the road. Develop routes to designated locations becoming acquainted with the routing, selecting roads with low density of traffic. The locations need be in near proximity and the trips short. Limit your outings avoiding heavy traffic periods-rush hours-after 9a.m. and prior to 4p.m. Don’t drive at night; dusk or dawn also pay attention to the weather conditions since driving in good weather conditions is safer, not in poor weather conditions which will be hazardous.

People’s lives are at stake based on sound judgments and skills to operate a motor vehicle. These are tough decisions but part of adapting a new lifestyle to manage the disease and have a quality of life. An automobile accident can have devastating lasting effects on everyone involved. Be smart, be planned, be honest.