Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and driving risk: A review of the literature and a methodological critique
Abstract
This article examines the literature on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and unintentional driving injury. This literature has emerged over the last decade as part of the burgeoning epidemic of road traffic death and injury, which is the number-one cause of death among young adults in North America. The available literature on observational outcome studies and experimental pharmacologic interventions is critically reviewed. A meta-analysis of behavioral outcomes and a review of effect size of pharmacologic studies are presented. Current data support the utility of stimulant medication in improving driving performance in younger ADHD drivers. A conceptual model of risk factors in young ADHD drivers is offered. The current state of screening instruments for identifying high-risk subjects within this clinical group is summarized along with a final section on emerging trends and future prospects for intervention.
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There are risks of driving for adolescents with ADHD, including crashes and motor vehicle violations.
“Given the risks of driving for adolescents with ADHD, including crashes and motor vehicle violations, special concern should be taken to provide medication coverage for symptom control while driving.79,136,137”
From Clinical Practice Guideline for the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents (2019) · cites this paper as [137]
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- Authors
- Jerome, L., Habinski, L., & Segal, A.
- Affiliations
- Western University (CA)
- Corresponding author
- Jerome, Laurence
- Venue
- Current Psychiatry Reports
- Published
- 2006-10
- Volume
- 8
- Issue
- 5
- Pages
- 416-426
- ISSN
- 1523-3812 (ISSN-L)
- 1535-1645
- OpenAlex
- W2039854165
- Cited by
- 130
- References
- 8
- Citations by year
- 2026: 5 · 2025: 4 · 2023: 3 · 2022: 4 · 2021: 7 · 2020: 5 · 2019: 12 · 2018: 7 · 2017: 7 · 2016: 8 · 2015: 6 · 2014: 8 · 2013: 16 · 2012: 6
- FWCI
- 3.35
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- closed
- Locations
- Current Psychiatry Reports (publishedVersion)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- Topics
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Psychiatry and Mental health › Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Physical Sciences › Engineering › Safety, Risk, Reliability and Quality › Traffic and Road Safety
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Epidemiology › Substance Abuse Treatment and Outcomes
- Keywords
- attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, driving risk, road traffic injuries, unintentional injuries, stimulant medication, driving performance, young adults, risk factors, screening tool, pharmacological interventions
- MeSH terms
- Accidents, Traffic, Age Factors, Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity, Automobile Driving, Humans, Risk Factors
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