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How does the DMV define a Lapse of Consciousness or Control?

The California DMV is intensely focused on any person who suffers with a medical condition or disorder described as a Lapse of Consciousness or Control.  To be clear, a person need not fully lose consciousness to come into the focus of the DMV.  Furthermore, their medical event need not occur while driving to give the DMV authority to suspend or revoke a driver license.   Even if a person suffers a seizure while at home in their own bed, the DMV will still consider them as being unsafe to drive.


Health and Safety Code Section 2806, defines a “Lapse of Consciousness” as those medical conditions that involve:
  1. A loss of consciousness or a marked reduction of alertness or responsiveness to external stimuli; and
  2. The inability to perform one or more activities of daily living; and
  3. The impairment of the sensory motor functions used to operate a motor vehicle.

“Examples of medical conditions that do not always, but may progress to the level of functional severity described in this section include Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, seizure disorders, brain tumors, narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and abnormal metabolic states, including hypo-and hyperglycemia associated with diabetes.”

Common Physical or Mental Conditions

Some of the more common Physical or Mental conditions associated with a Lapse of Consciousness or Control are Epilepsy, Non Epileptic Seizure Disorder, Diabetes, Sleep Apnea, Narcolepsy, Brain Tumor, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Drug/Alcohol Use, Medication use, Fainting/Syncope, Stroke, Drug Reaction, Change in Medical Regimen, Cardiac Disorders, Pulmonary Disorders.

Absolutely any single event or repeated events where a person experiences a change of awareness or the inability to control the function of their body will be an issue of concern for the DMV.

Quality DMV Defense From Industry Experts

We understand our client’s fear and objectives and will strive to meet or exceed their expectations. The mission of California Drivers Advocates is to provide the highest quality representation to our clients at administrative hearings before the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Don’t let the DMV steal your driver license without a fight. Call CDA today 888-281-5244