Driving With Epilepsy

https://www.joestephenslaw.com/driving-with-epilepsy/ • August 30, 2025

Who is Affected?

Epilepsy affects roughly 1.1 percent of the adult population of the United States and about 65 million people across the world. Anyone can develop epilepsy, but it’s most common in children and seniors, with roughly 1 million adults over 55 and more than 450,000 minors in the U.S. having the disorder. 

Epilepsy can come in many forms and has different effects on each patient. However, roughly 70 percent of people with epilepsy can successfully manage their seizures with medication. 



Causes of Epilepsy

Epilepsy has a broad variety of causes, including other health conditions that impact the brain. Conditions that can cause or contribute to epilepsy include:

  • Strokes
  • Brain tumors
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Some infections
  • Genetic disorders

Pinpointing the source of epilepsy can help patients avoid seizures and better manage their condition. However, in many individuals, epilepsy doesn’t have a specific cause. 

Laws and Regulations for Driving with Epilepsy

Each state has different laws regulating when and how people with epilepsy can drive safely and legally. For example, in Texas, an individual must have a three-month period free of seizures to obtain their driver’s license. Additionally, applicants must have their disorder well-controlled and have a doctor’s recommendation stating they can drive safely. 

Those with a history of epilepsy are generally not allowed to drive commercial vehicles like taxis, buses, trucks, or ambulances but can apply for an exception if they have been seizure-free for a significant period of time. Federal exemption requirements include eight years without seizures and, if the applicant needs medication, a treatment plan that has been stable for at least two years.



Symptoms of Epilepsy That Can Impair Driving Abilities

Epileptic seizures may be categorized as “generalized” or “focal,” with the latter beginning in a specific part of the brain. Generalized seizures tend to cause a loss of consciousness and involuntary muscle spasms. Focal seizures begin with less severe symptoms but can progress into a similar loss of bodily control.

Some individuals with epilepsy report experiencing an “aura” that precedes a seizure. Auras are unusual feelings or experiences, such as tingling, hallucinations, or other odd sensations typically associated with focal seizures. If you feel an aura, avoid driving until your symptoms fade.

Experiencing a seizure while driving can have disastrous consequences. However, driving after a seizure can also raise your risk of getting into an accident. Lingering symptoms like fatigue and memory problems can affect your ability to drive safely, potentially endangering yourself and others.




What Happens if a Seizure Occurs While Driving?

If you experience a seizure while driving, you should pull over and stop in a safe location immediately. Contact emergency services once you’re safe.
After the incident, schedule an examination with your doctor to ensure you can still meet the legal requirements to drive safely with your epilepsy. In the meantime, do not drive for at least three months. 

Safety Tips for Driving with Epilepsy


  • If you’re nervous about potentially experiencing a seizure while driving, consult your doctor and make sure they believe you can drive safely. Stick to your doctor’s treatment plan for your epilepsy, including any medications they prescribe, and check back in regularly to ensure everything is working properly.

  • Understanding what triggers your seizures can help you avoid any incidents while behind the wheel. Take notes of any patterns or potential causes you observe when you have seizures, keeping track of whether stress, sleep deprivation, or missing doses of your medication may have contributed. 

  • If you’re feeling unwell, experiencing an aura, or can tell that a seizure might be approaching, avoid getting behind the wheel until you feel better.

Liability in Car Accidents Involving Epilepsy

If you experience a seizure while driving, you should pull over and stop in a safe location immediately. Contact emergency services once you’re safe.
It can be difficult to assign blame when a driver with epilepsy is involved in a crash after experiencing a seizure. Drivers are generally considered responsible for managing their own health and behaving in a manner that does not expose others to danger, but depending on the circumstances of the accident, a driver may be able to avoid liability for a crash involving a seizure.

Was the Driver Aware of Their Condition?

Liability is most clear when the driver knows about the severity of their epilepsy and ignores their doctor’s warnings that it is unsafe for them to drive. This can be considered negligence, as the driver recklessly endangered others through their behavior.

Did the Driver Take Necessary Precautions?

If the driver’s doctor cleared them to drive safely under their treatment plan, failing to take medication as prescribed or avoid known seizure triggers could make the driver liable for the accident.

Seizure triggers can include fatigue, sleep deprivation, stress, dehydration, side effects of medication, dietary issues, caffeine intake, and more. If the driver’s triggers were avoidable or within their control and they drove anyway, they may be clearly liable.

Unexpected Seizures or First Occurrence

If the driver was not diagnosed with epilepsy or had no prior history of seizures before the incident, they may not be liable for the crash. The incident could be considered a sudden or unforeseeable medical emergency, placing the accident out of the driver’s control and absolving them of liability for any injuries.



How The Stephens Law Firm Can Help

If you were injured in a Houston car accident, attorney Joe Stephens can help you understand your legal options. Our firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of accident victims, including those with epilepsy, and will fight tirelessly to get high-value case results for our clients. Contact us online or call (936) 209-7538 today to schedule a free case review. 

Empowering Seniors: Strategies to Enhance Physical and Mental Well-Being

By Jason Lewis • August 11, 2023
As we age, maintaining both physical and mental health becomes increasingly important. The golden years can indeed be golden, filled with vitality and a sense of purpose, if we take the right steps towards wellness. This article provides comprehensive strategies that seniors can adopt to improve their overall health, from starting a fitness regimen to fostering social interactions.  Courtesy of 8S, let's dive into these beneficial practices and explore how they can contribute to a healthy, satisfying lifestyle in our later years. Initiate a Fitness Regimen: Physical activity is crucial for seniors, offering a multitude of health benefits. Regular exercise can improve mobility, enhance mood, and even reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. But it's not just about hitting the gym or running marathons. Simple activities like walking, gardening or dancing can keep seniors physically active and engaged. Incorporating exercise into daily routine doesn't have to be daunting. Start with gentle exercises and gradually increase the intensity as your body adjusts. Remember, it's not about the duration or intensity of the exercise; it's about consistency. The key is to find an activity you enjoy, making it easier to stick with in the long run. Engage Your Mind in New Ventures: Starting your own venture is a remarkable way to stay engaged and satisfied. As an entrepreneur, you're given the freedom to create, innovate, and make crucial decisions that shape the path of your business. Forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company), for instance, offers multiple advantages. One of the main benefits of an LLC is the protection it provides to its owners from personal liability for business debts and claims. This means that if the business incurs debt or is sued, the owners' assets are generally protected. Moreover, an LLC provides flexibility in terms of management structure and profit distribution and potential tax advantages. For those wondering how to start an LLC in Texas, the process involves several steps including choosing a unique name for your LLC, appointing a registered agent, filing a Certificate of Formation with the Texas Secretary of State, and creating an operating agreement. It's essential to understand these legalities and consider seeking professional advice if necessary. Starting your venture not only stimulates your mind but also brings about a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Embrace the Joy of Card Games: Card games are more than just a fun pastime. They can enhance memory, cognitive skills, and social interaction. Whether it's a game of bridge, poker, or solitaire, card games require strategy and concentration, which can help keep the mind sharp. Playing cards regularly can also provide an opportunity for social interaction. Joining a local card club or organizing card game nights with friends can foster a sense of community and belonging. Plus, it's a great way to have fun and enjoy some friendly competition. Adopt Regular Stretching and Healthy Eating Habits Beginning the day with a series of stretches can significantly improve both physical and mental health by enhancing flexibility, promoting better posture, and boosting mood and energy levels. Incorporating mindful practices like yoga or meditation with regular stretching can further elevate mental wellness. Simultaneously, maintaining a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains is essential for optimal health. It's not about imposing strict dietary restrictions but achieving balance and moderation in our eating habits. Working with professionals can help you develop an exercise and nutrition plan that’s right for you. Contact 8S today to learn more about how our services can help you live a healthier lifestyle. Foster Social Interactions: Staying connected with friends, family, and the community plays a significant role in mental health. Regular social interaction can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, boost mood, and even improve cognitive function. Whether it's volunteering, joining a community group, or simply catching up with friends over a cup of coffee, staying socially active can greatly enhance mental well-being. Remember, it's never too late to make new friends or reconnect with old ones. Improving the mental and physical health in seniors involves embracing a balanced lifestyle that incorporates regular physical activity, mental stimulation, and social interaction. By adopting these strategies, seniors can look forward to a vibrant and fulfilling life in their golden years.

A Complete Guide to Wellness Training

By sites • August 11, 2023
19% of adults feel like they are satisfied with their life and less than 10% feel as if they are close to their ideal life. If you want to have a more fulfilling life, you need to adopt some sort of wellness training into your daily routine. Healthy living is all about living a balanced life and overcoming stress with a personal wellness routine. Personal wellness is about balancing your level of activity with healthy food choices but it involves so much more. The overarching theme of personal wellness is much more than the latest fitness programs or diet fads. Wellness involves a comprehensive approach to creating a lifestyle that leaves you fulfilled. Read this guide to learn more. Balance What You Eat and Do The expression "burning" calories is a literal one as well as a figurative one. As you are active, chemical reactions take place in your body that release heat. This is why your core temperature increases and you sweat. The more calories you burn each day, the more calories you should consume in your diet. If you are more sedentary for a few days, eat fewer calories. If you are very active it is time to step up those portions. Put Premium Fuel in Your Body's Engine Scientists at Harvard University developed the healthy eating plate to give most people a general idea of what sort of food portions work best for the general population. Like the now-dead food pyramid before it, it's a standard. While what a "healthy eating plate" looks like for each individual may change, one thing remains constant: balanced diets made from wholesome (not processed) foods are the best for overall wellness and performance. You Don't Need to Be Rich to Eat Healthily Many people are under the illusion that you need to be rich to eat healthy, wholesome foods. The reality is that many cheaper foods are very healthy. Vegetables, rice, and fish are all affordable for many people. You can harvest or grow many healthy foods yourself if they cost a ton at your local supermarket. There are also plenty of tips out there to eat healthy on a budget . Don't get tricked into eating expensive trash food all the time. Find Fulfilling Exercises You should move as much as possible to stay healthy. For most people, the longer you can elevate your heart rate and extend your workouts the better. Try to find productive free exercises out in nature to save money and stress. Things like hiking, running, cycling, and swimming can be done by almost anyone for next to nothing in beautiful outdoor environments. Try as many different activities as you can to find out what clicks with you. Benefit From a Wellness Training Routine Some people see the most benefits from a training routine. You should find a personal trainer or wellness program that helps you balance your diet with the amount of exercise in your life. Many wellness coaches and personal trainers have fun new fitness ideas that you can incorporate into your repertoire. They can also help you set goals and overcome obstacles. See what services a trainer offers to see if you need them. Manage Your Stress Levels Stress produces the chemical cortisol which is a great evolutionary tool. During a flight-or-flight reaction cortisol increases blood glucose and along with adrenaline gives you all the tools you need to get out of harm's way. When cortisol is constantly released, such as when you suffer from chronic stress, the hormone wreaks havoc on your body. It can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, and death. Manage your stress levels to avoid this. Focus On Psychological Wellness A sound mind yields a sound body. Make sure you focus on your mental health wellness as well as your physical wellness. Get help when you need it, find positive outlets such as yoga, and build a support network. Get plenty of positive social time with friends, family, and neighbors. Make sure to find some activities in your life that are rewarding and provide meaning to help you cope when the going gets tough as well. Have Fun and Work Hard A wellness routine may be difficult at first, but overall you should come to enjoy it at some point. If you aren't having fun while maintaining your wellness, find a way to change this. You may not be a person that enjoys the gym or spending time outside in the harsh elements. Tweak your routine based on your preferred habits until you have established a lifestyle you enjoy living that benefits your health. Keep Your Routine Fresh If your wellness routine starts to feel stale or overplayed, you should incorporate some new activities. If your diet starts to taste bland or redundant after a while, look up some new recipes or source new ingredients. There is always something you can do to evolve your overall wellness routine and keep it fresh and interesting. Sometimes reaching out to a friend or professional for motivation is the best way to switch things up. Enjoy Recovery Time Everybody gets sick, tired, or burnt out. If you find yourself in pain after any of your exercises, or not willing to stick to your diet for a day, don't freak out. It is normal to enjoy your recovery time as needed. As long as you hop back on your wellness horse and don't fall out of your lifestyle for too long, enjoying recovery time is a good thing. Cherish those moments of indulgence or laziness, just don't let them take over. Become Your Healthiest Happiest Self You weren't put here on this planet to be miserable, sick, and out of shape. You can rise above all of these conditions through the right wellness training and cultivate a positive world outlook. If you need help getting your wellness routine established, contact us today . We can be the wellness coach and trainer you need to get your ideal life kicked into high gear. Let us help you attain your wellness dreams.

8 Benefits of Intuitive Eating

By sites • January 20, 2022
About one in four American s make New Year's resolutions. The majority of commitments involve exercising (46%), improving their diet (45%), and losing weight (44%). Unfortunately, only 35% of people keep up with their resolutions. In some cases, resolving to diet and exercise can even have a negative impact on your mental and physical health. Instead of crazy diet programs this year, give intuitive eating a try. Intuitive eating involves listening to your hunger cues and eating what you want without guilt. The process will teach you how to recognize fullness, too. Following this dietary approach can help you build a stronger relationship with your body as well. On the fence about giving this healthy eating method a try? Here are eight benefits to consider first. After reading this guide, you can determine if this smart eating program is right for you. Read on to discover the benefits of this healthy eating lifestyle today! 1. Detect and Honor Hunger Cues Intuitive eating requires people to honor their hunger. Otherwise, restring certain foods can lead people to overeat. Following the intuitive approach, on the other hand, ensures you eat enough calories to feel satisfied. You can provide your body with the carbohydrates, protein, and fat needed to feel full. Learning how to recognize hunger and fullness cues also rejects the diet mentality. Following a diet causes a constant awareness of food. It also causes you to constantly consider how food affects your body. You'll start filtering food choices in an effort to "be healthier" or look a certain way as a result. Following a diet mentality, especially long-term, can become harmful. People on a diet mentality don't always consider hunger, cravings, or what their bodies actually want. The intuitive approach, on the other hand, considers these various factors. Learning how to follow this approach could help you minimize cravings over time. You can re-establish trust with your body. Once you start honoring your hunger and fullness cues, you'll experience cravings less often. 2. Determine Your Preferences Following this healthy eating mentality can also help you recognize which foods you like and dislike. This approach ensures you're not eating based on external foods. You won't have to restrict a long list of foods, either. Instead, you can explore food to determine your preferences. You might even find that you no longer enjoy certain "forbidden" foods you previously binge ate. Meanwhile, you can explore new foods without thinking they're "good" or "bad." You could discover new favorite foods and recipes as a result. Since you're no longer thinking with an "all or nothing" mindset, you can also remain flexible. For example, you can have spontaneous dinner plans. You can also eat healthy on a budget or live a little more adventurously. 3. End Guilt This healthy eating mentality will also help you silence your "food police" mindset. You no longer have to moralize food. Many people who diet long term think all healthy foods are good and all unhealthy foods are bad. Following this smart eating approach will encourage you to challenge that belief. In doing so, you can stop having guilty thoughts surrounding food. Shutting off your inner food police will allow you to enjoy a variety of foods without feeling guilty for your choices. Instead, you can start approaching situations with curiosity (rather than judgment). You can gain a new perspective instead of thinking in black and white. You might find it's easier to buy food you love and store it at home without giving it extra thought. You can eat foods when you like or forget they're there. You won't have to worry about the guilt of having "trigger foods" around the house. 4. Food Tastes Better Once you remove the anxiety and guilt you feel about food, you'll focus more on taste. You can live in the present and notice the taste, texture, and smell of certain foods. Instead of feeling anxious about what you're eating, you can enjoy what you eat. 5. Have More Energy Becoming in tune with your body will help you recognize which foods make you feel at your best. You could notice you have more energy during the day as a result. You can also figure out which foods drain your energy levels and which ones give you a boost. 6. Better Mental and Physical Health Following an intuitive eating lifestyle can benefit your mental and physical wellbeing. Studies have already linked the intuitive approach to healthier psychological attitudes and lower body mass index (BMI). It helps with weight maintenance as well. People who follow this approach develop better self-esteem and body images. Your overall life could improve as well. You could experience less depression and anxiety with this healthy living approach. Once you no longer feel guilty about what you eat, you'll learn to trust your body. You'll recognize that what you eat doesn't define you. Your overall trust and self-confidence can increase as a result. You'll also learn self-compassion skills. You can trust yourself as you would a friend. You can stop beating yourself up about what you eat and begin caring for yourself instead. Feeling less guilt and fear about what you eat can also benefit your mood. You can fuel your body and recognize what helps you feel good mentally and physically. In fact, you could develop a better relationship with exercise as well. You can start seeing exercise as a form of self-care (rather than means of burning off calories). Once you start enjoying exercise, you'll feel more inclined to exercise. 7. Improved Digestion If you eat while stressed, your digestion can shut down, leading to gastrointestinal issues. Removing stress and anxiety about food from your life can improve your digestion. 8. Feel Satisfied Removing your food-related anxiety can also help you feel more satisfied with life. You can seek pleasure from things besides food. Meanwhile, you can stop worrying about what people are thinking of you. Instead, you can live unapologetically while focusing on your wants and needs. Smart Eating Mentalities: 8 Delicious Benefits of Intuitive Eating Don't let a diet mindset impact your overall mental and physical health. Instead, consider these benefits of intuitive eating. A new, healthy eating mindset could change your life for the better. You can make healthier food choices, improve your self-awareness, and put an end to food-related stress. Want to stop counting calories and start living your best life? We can help. Discover our tailored nutritional and wellness training services today. Contact us to get started.