Many people find that being able to drive offers them independence and freedom, and these can be especially important factors for disabled people. However, there are some health conditions and impairments prevent people from having a driving licence so, before you start getting excited and booking driving lessons, it's worth checking whether or not you will face limitations. The first thing to know is that, if you already drive and your doctor tells you you should stop driving, you must immediately send your licence back to DVLA for them to consider your situation. This is called 'surrendering your driving licence' and you can download the form and the information you need on this government webpage. When DVLA have assessed your suitability to drive, they will then return your licence if appropriate. There is also a long list of medical conditions that disabled and unwell people should be aware of. It is far too lengthy to reproduce here but it includes everything from Acoustic Neuroma to Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome. Look through this list and, if you have any of the conditions listed, follow the instructions. For some, like depression or strokes, you may need to inform the DVLA whereas for others, like labyrinthitis and narcolepsy, you are obliged to contact them, by law. It sounds complicated, and maybe a bit overwhelming, but it is really important that you don't drive if you're unsure whether you're well enough to. Not only do you risk prosecution or fines, you could also put yourself or others in danger. If your condition is not listed but you have any concerns, check with your doctor or with the DVLA and they will advise you. If everybody is happy that you are safe to learn to drive, then it's time to get enthusiastic and start planning! The next step is to work out whether you would need your car to have any adaptations to help you to drive. Check out our next blog post in this series - to be published on Monday - about cars and adaptations for disabled drivers.
Driving with a Health Condition or Disability: The Rules
Many people find that being able to drive offers them independence and freedom, and these can be especially important factors for disabled people. However, there are some health conditions and impairments prevent people from having a driving licence so, before you start getting excited and booking driving lessons, it's worth checking whether or not you will face limitations. The first thing to know is that, if you already drive and your doctor tells you you should stop driving, you must immediately send your licence back to DVLA for them to consider your situation. This is called 'surrendering your driving licence' and you can download the form and the information you need on this government webpage. When DVLA have assessed your suitability to drive, they will then return your licence if appropriate. There is also a long list of medical conditions that disabled and unwell people should be aware of. It is far too lengthy to reproduce here but it includes everything from Acoustic Neuroma to Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome. Look through this list and, if you have any of the conditions listed, follow the instructions. For some, like depression or strokes, you may need to inform the DVLA whereas for others, like labyrinthitis and narcolepsy, you are obliged to contact them, by law. It sounds complicated, and maybe a bit overwhelming, but it is really important that you don't drive if you're unsure whether you're well enough to. Not only do you risk prosecution or fines, you could also put yourself or others in danger. If your condition is not listed but you have any concerns, check with your doctor or with the DVLA and they will advise you. If everybody is happy that you are safe to learn to drive, then it's time to get enthusiastic and start planning! The next step is to work out whether you would need your car to have any adaptations to help you to drive. Check out our next blog post in this series - to be published on Monday - about cars and adaptations for disabled drivers.
