My Granddaughter who lives in AZ, has frequent epileptic seizures and drives!

Hi Anon - Thanks for contacting us, you seem to be very worried about your granddaughter. Yes, there are several areas of concern for those with seizure disorders, which is also known as epilepsy. Seizures are episodes during which the electrical system within the brain fires abnormally. The term “epilepsy” refers to any disorder characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures.

During a seizure, a person may lose consciousness, stare into space, have convulsions (abnormal jerking of the muscles), or experience abnormalities of sensation or emotion.

Have you tried to work with her directly to get her to see the risks she takes while driving? Or are you concerned and wanting to find a way to bring this up with her and get her to take action?

You mentioned that she has frequent seizures. Is she under the care of a physician that specializes in seizure disorders? A wide range of treatment options is available today that can reduce or eliminate seizures. Please go to our condition page for epilepsy to learn more about these options.

https://www.empowher.com/media/reference/seizure-disorder#causes

If she is not under the care of a specialist, that should be the first concern. Second, I would seek a professional opinion from that medical specialist as to whether or not she should be driving. If the determination is that she should not be driving, then you have several options, including handling this within the family and/or seeking outside assistance to remove her driving privileges. Your actions are also dependent on her legal status, and I can't tell from your comments if she is an emancipated adult, a minor under the care of her mother or a minor in your care.

Please review this information, and then let us know more about your situation so that we can assist you further so that you can help your granddaughter. Thank you for caring about her, and for others on Arizona's roads.

Take good care,
Pat