Early Dementia And Accident Risks

A diagnosis of early dementia can be overwhelming for both the individual and their family. There are a lot of hard decisions to make, including determining when it’s no longer safe for that person to drive.

While driving offers freedom and independence, it also requires quick thinking, good judgment, and the ability to remember details. Hopefully, plans can be put in place early on so collisions can be avoided, but if an accident occurs, consult with a Miami personal injury lawyer for guidance.

How Dementia Affects Driving

In the early stages of dementia, symptoms may be mild, but they can still affect a person’s driving ability. Dementia affects memory, reasoning, and motor skills, all of which are necessary for safe driving. Here are some ways that dementia can impact driving:

• Memory problems. Forgetting familiar routes, missing exits, or becoming disoriented in familiar locations are signs that memory issues are affecting driving ability.
• Impaired judgment. Individuals with early dementia may have trouble judging distances, speeds, or the actions of other drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Slower reaction times. Dementia can affect the brain’s ability to process information quickly. This means slower reactions to traffic signals, unexpected hazards, or other drivers’ actions.
• Confusion with controls. Operating a vehicle requires multitasking and familiarity with the car’s controls. Individuals with dementia may forget how to use signals, brakes, or other essential functions.

Determining when someone with early dementia should stop driving can be difficult. In some cases, they may still be capable of driving safely for a short period after diagnosis, but it’s crucial to monitor their condition closely.

When to Step In and Take Away the Keys

Warning signs that it may be time to stop driving include a loved one being involved in fender benders, getting lost on familiar routes, or seeming confused while driving. Additionally, if others who ride with your loved one raise concerns, it’s important to take those worries seriously.

The decision to take away the keys from a loved one with early dementia is never easy. Start with a compassionate, open conversation about your concerns. Emphasize safety rather than focusing on taking away their independence. Involving a doctor can also be helpful.

Next, offer transportation alternatives such as rideshare services, public transportation, or family assistance. When a person continues to drive despite those around them raising serious concerns, reporting them to the Florida Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be appropriate. Then, professionals can evaluate their driving ability.

If someone with early dementia causes an accident, it can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. An experienced Miami personal injury lawyer can help in the wake of a collision.

Should you take the car keys away from a loved one who has recently been diagnosed with dementia? Families can take steps to protect their loved ones and others on the road from the dangers of dementia-related driving risks. To connect with support following an accident, talk to the legal team at Spencer Morgan Law. Call 305-423-3800 for a confidential assessment.