Examining the Seizure Standard for CMV Drivers

Project Goal:

The objective of the project is to examine the risk of seizure recurrence for CMV drivers who have experienced one or more seizures or have been diagnosed with a seizure disorder, such as epilepsy.

Background:

The physical qualification standard for drivers regarding seizures, found in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(8), states that a person is physically qualified to drive a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) if that person “has no established medical history or clinical diagnosis of epilepsy or any other condition which is likely to cause loss of consciousness or any loss of ability to control a commercial motor vehicle.” Currently, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) allows commercial motor vehicle (CMV) drivers to apply for exemptions to the seizure standard.

Summary:

The research team will conduct a literature review focusing on the following research questions: 1. What is the risk for seizure recurrence after an unprovoked first seizure in adults at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and more than 10 years following the first seizure for individuals who (a) are treated with antiepileptic drugs, and (b) are not treated with antiepileptic drugs? 2. What is the risk for seizure recurrence after a provoked first seizure in adults at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and more than 10 years following the first seizure for individuals who (a) are treated with antiepileptic drugs, and (b) are not treated with antiepileptic drugs? 3. What is the risk for seizure recurrence after a diagnosis of a seizure disorder, to include epilepsy, at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and more than 10 years following the diagnosis for individuals who (a) are treated with antiepileptic drugs, and (b) are not treated with antiepileptic drugs? 4. What is the risk for seizure recurrence for individuals who have undergone resective surgery for a structural brain abnormality or a seizure disorder, to include epilepsy, at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and more than 10 years following the surgery? 5. What are the professional recommendations regarding driving for commercial drivers (a) following a first unprovoked seizure, (b) following a first provoked seizure, (d) following a diagnosis of a seizure disorder, including epilepsy, and (e) following a diagnosis of nocturnal epilepsy (defined as epilepsy with seizures only while asleep or upon awakening)? In addition, the research team will summarize State driving regulations relating to seizure disorders, including epilepsy, for intrastate CMV drivers in the US. The research team will also summarize the CMV regulatory and medical advisory criteria in other countries regarding medical treatments for seizure disorders.

Funding

Total Funding: $ 180,901.18

Contractor:

ARA