Do you need to advise your insurer straightaway, even if Ataxia isn't affecting your driving (yet)?

[Wyndham]

I have advised the DVLA, but hadn't thought about insurance until I started reading some of the blogs here.

Anyone know what the legal position is with this?

[Nigel-2112]

you are required, by law, to notify both the DVLA and your Insureance company

[Hidden]

I would go and see my doctor first. This is only my personal opinion. Good luck.

[MrsSharonStockley]

It is always advisable to let the DVLA and your insurers know if you have a medical condition. With regards to your insurer, it is important that they re aware, as if there was an accident and it was proved to be caused by a medical condition not declared you would not be covered.

[Wyndham]

I've just telephoned my insurance company (Swift) and actually had to persuade them to make a note.

They said that, as far as they were concerned, they do not need to know unless the DVLA says I can't drive, or if I have had specific advice against driving by my GP.

This doesn't really make sense to me as, if the DVLA withdraws my licence (or my GP advises against), then I will no longer need motoring insurance.

I think Sharon's point is the most valid one.

This is a little worrying though, as it seems as if (some) insurance companies may be giving out bad advice. For example, if I took Swift's advice and didn't insist they made a record of Ataxia against my policy, and an accident in the future was disputed because of my Ataxia, then I would have likely have lost out.

There was no increase in the policy premium.

[silkwood]

I went through this palava about four years ago.I informed the DVLA and sent off my driving licence.I have it for three years now.I find I dont like driving now as I dont trust my eyes so I get lifts.I have got my car from Mobility but I feel much safer with my road scooter.I still have my car and can drive it for emergencies.I thought it would be the end of the world if I lost my licence.I would prefer to give it up voluntarily than lose it in an accident.None of it is your fault and ataxia affects people in different ways.Some of our members are driving quite happiliy.But Iain is right discuss how it affects you with your doctor.I think legally they have to tell the DVLA if they are worried but dont panic.It may not be as bad as you think.I have adapted very well. I used to drive all over the country. After being reported twice for slow driving I only drive in emergencies.If the police stopped me to talk they would think I was drunk so I carry my card which you can get from Ataxia UK.

Marie

[Donnybluewayne]

Marie, how do I get one of these cards please !