Driving inclusivity: Design needs in autonomous vehicles for people with epilepsy

In this study, the transportation needs of people with epilepsy are considered, specifically in regard to the development of autonomous vehicles. People with epilepsy who are unable to achieve control of their seizures are not typically able to safely operate a motor vehicle, and are unable to be licensed drivers, and it is logical to believe that autonomous vehicles would be a benefit to them. However, the specific needs that people with epilepsy may have with respect to autonomous vehicles have not been examined. In this work, interviews with people with epilepsy and medical professionals involved in the treatment of epilepsy were conducted, with the goal of understanding the ways in which lower levels of autonomy might allow people with epilepsy to safely operate a motor vehicle as well as what design features might be needed in fully autonomous (Level 4 or Level 5) vehicles. As a result of this work, a roadmap of possible technological innovations and research directions is presented, with the intention of providing solutions to various challenges faced by people with epilepsy in their access to transportation.