Driving with a Cast
General safety considerations for driving with an arm or leg cast and why you should confirm restrictions.
- Ask your provider if driving is safe for your injury and side (right vs left).
- If you take sedating pain medicine, do not drive.
- Practice safe entry/exit and seatbelt positioning without stressing the injury.
- Ensure you can grip the wheel and control pedals safely (if leg cast).
- Consider alternatives (ride share, family, public transit) while restricted.
- Do not drive with a right leg cast or boot unless you are explicitly cleared.
- Do not drive if you cannot perform an emergency stop safely.
- Do not drive while dizzy or impaired from medications.
- Do not remove your cast to drive.
- Do not ignore new pain after driving.
1) Confirm clearance with your provider before driving.
2) Ensure you are not taking medications that impair reaction time.
3) Test your ability to steer/brake safely in a parked car first.
4) Keep trips short at first and elevate afterward if swelling increases.
5) If driving causes pain or swelling that doesn’t improve, stop driving and call.
- New severe pain, swelling, numbness/tingling after driving.
- Any fall while getting in/out of the vehicle.
- If you are unsure about restrictions—call before driving.