How might a stroke affect safe driving?

The effects of a stroke are different for each person. Some of the effects of a
stroke may interfere with your ability to drive.

For example:

Vision
You may experience changes such as double vision or reduced peripheral vision.

Visual-perceptual
You may have difficulties recognizing objects.

Motor
You may have difficulty controlling movements.

Sensory
You may have difficulties sensing movement, touch or neglect one side.

Cognitive
You may have impulsive behaviour, difficulties with judgement, memory changes or greater distractibility.

Warning signs of unsafe driving

You have difficulty turning the steering wheel, applying the brake or gas pedal.
You do not notice people or other vehicles on one side.
You feel frustrated, angry or confused while driving.
You have difficulty staying on your side of the lane or drift across lane markings, into other lanes.
You find it difficult to think clearly about the traffic around you.
You get lost in familiar areas.
You have had several close calls or minor accidents.

If these warning signs reflect your situation, maybe it is time to make some changes to your driving strategies or have your driving evaluated.