The Voice News: Research shows that people with ADHD are more likely to get traffic tickets and be involved in car accidents. But experts say this shouldn’t discourage anyone — especially those who understand and manage their condition well.
Why Driving Can Be Riskier for People With ADHD
Driving requires focus, quick decision-making, and awareness — all things that can be harder for people with ADHD. Studies show that drivers with ADHD are more likely to be distracted, drive at unsafe speeds, or miss important road signals.
Dr. Will Cronenwett, a psychiatry expert at Northwestern University, explained that while not every individual with ADHD will have issues, people with the condition are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents.
One study found that teens with ADHD had a 9% higher chance of being in a crash they caused, mostly due to inattention and speeding.
According to therapist Jackie Morrison, this is because the ADHD brain processes more information at once and has trouble filtering out distractions. That means things that wouldn’t distract a neurotypical driver could pull the focus of someone with ADHD.
Morrison added that the ADHD brain also needs more stimulation to stay engaged. In situations like driving, which can feel repetitive, the brain may struggle to stay in the “task-positive network,” which is the part that helps us concentrate.
Being Diagnosed With ADHD Doesn’t Make You a Bad Driver
Both experts stressed that while ADHD increases risk statistically, it doesn’t mean everyone with ADHD is unsafe behind the wheel.
“If someone is managing their ADHD well, they could be an even safer driver than someone without the condition,” said Dr. Cronenwett. “A diagnosis is not a definite sign of risk — it’s how you manage your symptoms that matters.”
Distracted Driving Affects Everyone — Not Just Those With ADHD
You don’t need an ADHD diagnosis to be a distracted driver. Fatigue, stress, phone use, or even emotional distress can take your attention off the road.
In fact, drowsy driving led to 633 car crashes in 2023 alone, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
So whether you have ADHD or not, what matters most is how focused and alert you are before getting behind the wheel.
What Can You Do If You Have Trouble Staying Focused While Driving?
Experts suggest checking in with yourself before driving. Ask questions like:
Am I tired?
Am I emotionally upset or distracted?
If the answer is yes, it might not be safe to drive at that moment.
For people with ADHD or anyone who struggles to focus, Morrison suggests practicing mindfulness. Simple breathing exercises or body awareness can train the brain to stay present — which is key while driving.
“You’re training your brain to be okay with boredom,” Morrison said. “Driving can be dull, and the ADHD brain craves stimulation, so this practice helps prepare for that.”
She also recommends slowing down your actions — like taking your time while cooking or unpacking groceries — to help your brain get used to operating at a slower, safer pace.
When driving, avoid audio content that draws your full focus, like thrilling audiobooks or high-energy music. Choose something that keeps you alert but doesn’t pull your attention away from the road.
And of course, never look at your phone while driving — regardless of whether you have ADHD.
Final Thoughts
Driving safely is about managing your mental state, not just your diagnosis. Whether it’s ADHD, stress, or sleepiness, any distraction can put you at risk. But with awareness and smart habits, anyone can become a safer driver.