[Fitness to drive: specific supports in 2017]

In this article we discuss the clinical aspects of the examination of fitness to drive. The medical history and clinical examination are an essential first step in this assessment. This should be done in a systematic way and enable to highlight the potential « red flags », in other words medical conditions and the use of drugs increasing the risk of accidents. Investigations are sometimes necessary to define the severity of the disease before deciding whether it permits, or if it contraindicates driving. In recent years, there have been a number of recommendations from Swiss medical societies in collaboration with experts in traffic specialized physicians who are a valuable assistance for the practitioner and whose aim is to standardize medical care throughout the country.