The effects of migraine on driving safety, driving habits, and risk perception

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the multidimensional effects of migraine on driving by evaluating the driving habits of individuals with migraine and their adherence to safety strategies. METHODS: This multicenter, hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2024. Volunteers aged 18-65 years with a diagnosis of migraine and a history of driving were included. Detailed face-to-face interviews were conducted using a form adapted from the Driving Habit Questionnaire to assess demographic characteristics, driving experience, driving preferences, and driving habits. The quality of life of drivers with migraine was assessed using the Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6). RESULTS: Of the 2,548 patients evaluated in the study, 1,333 had driving experience. The mean age of the drivers was 36.7 +/- 9.5 years, and 64.4% were female. Patients with migraine drove approximately 4.8 days per week, and 64.1% had more than 10 years of driving experience. Overall, participants demonstrated good compliance with safety precautions: 92.2% always fastened their seat belts, and 85.2% regularly checked their rearview mirrors before driving. However, 28.8% of patients always preferred to be the driver, and 26.3% reported driving faster than the speed limit and contrary to traffic flow. The mean HIT-6 score was 62.2 +/- 7.1. Male sex, smoking, alcohol use, longer driving experience, and lower HIT-6 scores were associated with more frequent driving, higher driving speeds, and a greater tendency to perceive themselves as better drivers. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that migraine influences driving behavior by affecting driving frequency, speed preferences, and subjective driving confidence. These factors should be considered in clinical assessments.