[The presence of pathological processes among spanish drivers: its relevance to road safety].

Background: The presente of pathological processes is considered to be a risk factor in road traffic accidents. The Council Directive 91/439 (29 July 1991) and the legislation prevailing in our country (RD 1467/1983 and 13/1992) specify the different diseases or deficiencies which can affect the ability to drive appropriately. The aim of this study is to assess the presente of pathological processes among spanish drivers. Methods: A sample of Spanish drivers were selected and a self questionnaire was sent to them. 1500 questionnaires were considered to be valid. Results: The health state of the majority of the drivers was shown to be good (61.8%) or very good (35.3%). 15.3% of those surveyed suffered some pathological process. of which 52.0% were considered capable of affecting their ability to drive without any danger (7.9% among all surveyed). 6.6% of the drivers with pathological procecses considered that their ability to drive had decreased because of that reason. and 3.1% had stopped driving. Conclusions: The presente of incapacitating pathological processes among Spanish drivers is frequent. Health care workers should be aware of this and should inform their patients of the possible effect of a pathological process and other risk factors concerning driving ability.