Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is usually a condition associated with young children. However, a large percentage of children grow up to have ADHD as adults. It is believed that between 5 and 75% of children with ADHD grow up to continue having ADHD symptoms. It is a common neurodevelopmental disorder, and now studies show that behaviors associated with the disorder may lead adults with ADHD to cause more car accidents.
Risky Driving Behavior
A recent study found that the rate of car crashes in adults with an ADHD history was 1.81 times higher than those without ADHD. Research shows that ADHD is associated with more traffic violations, speeding violations, license suspensions, and risky driving behavior. Individuals with ADHD have decreased impulse control and are more likely to take dangerous risks. ADHD also affects an individual’s ability to focus and pay attention to tasks. When this behavior affects driving behavior, the results can be dangerous.
The study noted that the persistence of ADHD into adulthood could also affect other aspects of an individual’s life, which can lead to risky driving behavior. This includes emotional functioning, substance abuse rates, poor control of aggression, and involvement with the judicial system.
Decreasing the Risk
An earlier study found that if an adult with ADHD is properly treated with medication, than their risk of causing a car accident decreased. Results of the study estimated that one in five of the car accidents involving 2 million people with ADHD during the 10-year study period could have been avoided if the person was receiving appropriate treatment. Medication can improve the features of ADHD that affect driving ability and lead to safer behavior on the road. Taking medication can help an individual reduce the instances of hyperactivity, impaired impulse control, aggression, excessive risk-taking, and substance abuse. This evidence demonstrates the importance of adults receiving treatment for their ADHD in order to remain safe.
Contact a New York Car Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you want an experienced attorney on your side. At Bonina & Bonina, P.C., we have been helping New Yorkers injured in car accidents for over 50 years. Contact us online or call us at 1-888-MEDLAW1 to schedule your free consultation. Home and hospital visits are available. Se habla español.