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Excessive daytime sleepiness is one of the main narcolepsy symptoms. But being tired during the day may pose a driving safety risk to both the driver and others on the road.
Research on narcolepsy and driving is very limited. Existing studies show that more than 50 percent of people with narcolepsy have fallen asleep while driving. One-third of those drivers have been involved in a motor vehicle accident due to their sleep disorder.
By knowing their limits, people with narcolepsy can minimize the risks involved and still drive safely. One MyNarcolepsyTeam member said, “I was very concerned about hurting someone else. But now my doctor has me on medication that makes driving a lot less risky. I’m very excited to be able to go to the store and pharmacy.”
Read on to learn how narcolepsy impacts your driving ability, and what you can do to stay safe.
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Narcolepsy is a disorder of the sleep-wake cycle that causes daytime sleepiness, sleep attacks, possible loss of consciousness, and cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness). It can also cause automatic behaviors. These happen when you’re doing something without being aware of it (like eating, talking, or driving). These symptoms of narcolepsy can lead to unsafe driving.
Driving while drowsy can greatly increase your risk of being involved in a car accident. Even a second of inattention while driving can put you and others in danger. In 2023, drowsy driving contributed to 2.1 percent of traffic fatalities in the U.S.
Being sleepy while driving makes it harder for drivers to focus, think clearly, and make decisions. It can also make reaction times slower. Driving while sleepy can seriously compromise your ability to drive safely.
A MyNarcolepsyTeam member shared, “Highway driving became very difficult without conversation and sometimes even with conversation. There were many days I had no recollection of leaving the house or driving to work. I just sort of woke up already there. I sometimes wonder if I caused any incidents.”
Some driving laws have special rules for people diagnosed with medical conditions that can cause a sudden loss of consciousness (LOC). These conditions may include narcolepsy, epilepsy, and obstructive sleep apnea. These laws may vary by state.
Some state department of motor vehicles agencies require drivers to report medical conditions that affect their ability to drive. Other states have less strict rules and rely on self-reporting, or don’t require reporting at all.
Most states don’t list narcolepsy as a reason to revoke a driver’s license. But some states may enforce driving restrictions or different levels of medical probation for people with narcolepsy. It depends on how well the medical condition is controlled.
State-specific driving laws for LOC disorders vary and may include:
Having your driver’s license revoked or restricted because of a medical condition can affect your quality of life.
Since many areas of the United States rely heavily on cars for transportation, losing your driver’s license can have wide-ranging effects. In places where public transportation is limited, not being able to drive can make it difficult to get to work, participate in social or community activities, and meet daily needs. It can also interfere with family responsibilities, such as taking children to and from school and doing chores like grocery shopping.
The loss of a driver’s license can also have consequences for your health. This may include depression and a decrease in your overall well-being.
One MyNarcolepsyTeam member said this about their experience giving up driving: “I can’t drive. My independence and life as I know it is over. No more driving, swimming, or outdoor activities by myself, and I’m a very independent person.”
Being diagnosed with narcolepsy doesn’t mean you’ll automatically lose your driver’s license.
Because narcolepsy is a rare condition, there isn’t a lot of research or data to show what clearly reduces driving risk. However, there have been many treatment advances that you can explore with your medical team. Talk to your healthcare provider about what approaches may work best for you.
Neurologists and other medical professionals often use the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test. This screening tool is used to assess whether someone is at a higher risk of drowsy driving. Doctors have also identified several habits and strategies to help decrease driving risk, including:
A MyNarcolepsyTeam member shared, “I find listening to NPR and voices talking keep me more awake than music.”
Another team member reported, “I still drive, but not for long distances and no more than an hour on a good day. I can sense the sleep coming on, so I pull over and sleep.”
People with narcolepsy who combine medical treatment, behavioral strategies, and thoughtful limits may be able to drive safely.
On MyNarcolepsyTeam, people share their experiences with narcolepsy, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
How do you keep yourself from falling asleep while driving? Let others know in the comments below.
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A MyNarcolepsyTeam Member
My job is a huge help
I get in around 11 or so this way I sleep until I'm ready to get up. There are still some days I get up sit down and go right back to sleep. If I do not take my medicine in… read more
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