Abstract
Key points: • lmpairment of cognitive performance is associated with an excess risk of accidents. • Adaptation of driving behaviour in subjects with benign cognitive disorders reduces risk of automobile accidents. • Cessation of driving or at least not driving alone limits the excess accident risk for drivers with dementia. • Alterations in visual field and acuity increase risk of traffic accidents. • Drugs affecting vigilance and neurological, cardiovascular and osteoarticular disorders increase accident risk. • Screening for these disorders in the elderly is a necessary public safety measure. (Author/publisher)