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A man in North China who had an epileptic seizure while behind the wheel and caused a crash that killed two and injured five is in police custody and is facing charges.
The driver surnamed Yang, who has a history of epilepsy, told police in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province he had lost consciousness and had no recollection of the accident on December 9.
Yang was detained for endangering public safety and an investigation is underway.
In a recent article, the Beijing Youth Daily explored Yang's case, discussing the laws in place regarding drivers with epilepsy and what could be done to prevent such accidents in the future.
Currently, people with epilepsy are prohibited from obtaining driving licenses in China. Applicants must provide a valid certificate of health. However, the regulation only specifies physical requirements for height, eyesight, color blindness, hearing and mobility. While medical tests for epilepsy are not required, people with a history of seizures have the obligation of providing that information, the paper reported.
If a motorist fails to do so and has a seizure while driving, they would not only be legally held liable in case of an accident, but also face criminal charges for “endangering public safety.”
While those who conceal a history of epilepsy should be held accountable, imposing fines and punishments alone will not prevent further tragedies from happening. the article reads.
EEG exams should be required when applying for driving licenses or jobs that involve machinery and motor vehicles, such as bus drivers. Also, bus companies should have precautionary measures in place to avoid hiring drivers with epilepsy, Beijing Youth Daily reported.
