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Driving a Car After a Stroke

British Columbia Specific Information

A stroke is a brain injury caused by blood flow to the brain being blocked, or bleeding in the brain. After having a stroke, you may experience physical, mental and emotional complications. These could include

  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Joint pain
  • Trouble walking
  • Speech and language difficulties
  • Trouble with memory or focusing

Stroke rehabilitation programs can help you continue to live as independently as possible after a stroke, and to learn to adjust to the physical and mental changes caused by your stroke.

To find stroke recovery and rehabilitation programs in your area, search the HealthLink BC Directory. For more information on stroke recovery, visit Heart and Stroke Foundation or Stroke Recovery Association of British Columbia.

For more information on exercising to prevent a stroke or rehabilitation exercises after a stroke, call 8-1-1 to speak with a qualified exercise professional Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm PST. You may also call 8-1-1 to speak with a registered nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Overview

After a stroke, problems with your vision, speech, or ability to move can change your ability to drive safely. So you'll need your doctor's approval to drive again. This may be hard to accept. This may feel like a big loss of independence. But this approval is for the safety of yourself and others.

Talk with your doctor and your loved ones about driving. Also, check with your motor vehicle department about the rules for people who have had a stroke. You may need to take classes, be tested again, and have changes made to your car. Some stroke rehab centres give driver training classes.

If you can't drive because of problems from your stroke, and you do not have other options, check with your stroke rehab centre and public transit agency. They can help you find local services. Senior groups and volunteer agencies may also offer transportation services.

Credits

Current as of: February 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Richard D. Zorowitz MD - Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation