If you break your foot or ankle, your doctor may need to put you in a cast. You will be asked to remain without weight bearing for a period of time to allow the injured area to heal. Does that mean you can’t drive? Here are some questions to ask yourself to figure out the answer.
Question 1: Which leg is the cast on?
If you put it on your right leg and normally use your right foot to accelerate and brake, the answer is no, you shouldn’t be driving. If you have a cast on your left leg, you can still drive.
Question 2: Does any medication affect your reactions?
Check your medications and make sure you are not taking anything that will impede your ability to react quickly in a vehicle. The medicines should tell you if you shouldn’t drive while taking them. You will have to wait to drive until you are no longer taking medications that may affect your abilities.
Question 3: Does your doctor say that you are ok?
When you’re recovering from an injury, the smart thing to do is follow your doctor’s advice. If your doctor says it’s best for you to rest at home and not drive, you should follow those instructions. Your doctor may be thinking about the best recovery time, as well as your safety and the safety of others along the way.
Question 4: Is the cast in the way?
If you have a cast on your left foot, it may not be in your way. But you’ll need to get behind the wheel and double check to make sure it’s not getting in the way of your driving in any way. If you can ensure that you won’t, then driving is an option for you.
Question 5: Does it hurt?
Once your cast is removed and you continue on the road to recovery, you may be able to start driving. However, if pressing on your foot hurts, you should be careful and avoid driving long distances. Driving is easier than walking over the injured area, but too much pressure and stress can still send you spiraling backwards.
When you have a cast, your whole life can change. Everything is harder to do and you may feel quite isolated, possibly having to depend on others to get you to and from wherever you need to go. Go ahead and enjoy the extra time with these people. While they are there, use them to help you get in and out of your new location to ensure your safety. You can spend time paying them off when you’re back on both feet.
If you think you can drive on your own, keep these questions in mind and proceed with caution. Your safety and the safety of those around you is the most important consideration.
