Who still has their drivers licence? And how long have you had PD.

[lmbanni]

My hubby is concerned as he is going on 9 years with PD and thinks the DMV won't let him drive anymore.

[honeycombe3]

WHY NOT?? I think you may be US which is probably different. I'm in UK in the process of renewing my 3 yr driving licence for the second time ie I've held a licence for 6 years & it's 8 yrs since dx. I don't this will be of much help. but it's the best I can do.

[cowmom27]

diagnosed 6 yrs ago tomorrow and still driving

[drew410]

Diagnosed 1999 and DVLA informed.Not heard from them since.

I am 65 y.o.

[Crosshalls]

I am 83 informed DVLA received reply within 6 months,have to take a re assessment test next week

[Jupeter]

I am 76, had P for 11 years, still driving.

In the UK when you reach 70 you have to re-apply every 3 years for a licence and declare your physical condition. They check with your doctor before issuing a new 3 year licence.

[Espo]

Different jurisdictions have dfferent rules. Some require you to report unsafe drivers. Some of thoe provide anonymity, some do not. If you are going to check in your location, merely asking the DMV (or whatever the proper authority is in your location) will send up a red flag, so be mindful where you inquire. Also be mindful that we have an obligation to others not to endanger them on the road when we are no longer safe drivers.

[rch21]

this does worry me - can I move my foot fast enough to brake safelY? I still can, but when will I know I can't - if it is driving, that may be too late.

[lmbanni]

Thank you to all of you who answered! I was touched by so many of you being so concerned!! My husband is still a safe driver. He is always concerned with everyone's safety. He only drives with me and only when he is "on."

We are in US and the Dept. Of Moter Vehicles is very strict on giving someone their renewal. We are retested if we have a medical condiion, diabetes, MS, PD, etc. They also need a letter from your doctor. My husband does take the safety of others very seriously and would never put others in danger due to his needs or importance of keeping his independence. We think every state should retest after the age of 50. People drive so crazy here in the US!!

He asked me to ask this question because he wants to get an idea of how long to expect to be able to drive. Of course he knows everyone is different too. Just because someone has had PD for 10 yrs and still drives it does not mean he will too. He just wanted an idea and figures to average.

[WayneP]

John, I got to say I like you brother!!! I took it on my own to stop driving. On Friday I will be 47!!! I need some one take me everywhere!!! Do I hate it, yes!! But my reaction times have slowed and I can see that I could not react fast enough to avoid me from causing or avoiding an accident. In making this decision, I spoke with both a Florida Highway Patrolman and a lawyer both friends of mine. Both told me that in an accident, if I was at fault having PD in a court of law could be as bad as being drunk. In the case of someone hitting me, a lawyer could say that if I had my full abilities, I might be able to possibly avoid some types of accidents depending on the circumstances. In the end, I am not willing to take that chance. If others want to, go ahead. Nothing happens, cool. Something happens that you could have avoided by taking that step on your own, maybe the life of another because you were to proud to stop driving, God be with you. Most people here will not stop driving on their own, a fact. But just something to think about.....

Wayne

[WayneP]

Just another point here, just because you are still driving does not mean that you should still be driving. "I am still able to control my car, how dare you!!!" You cannot be your own judge.

Wayne

[emswife]

Im still driving, Ive has

d PD 2 years and Im 60. BUT I know there are days when I shouldnt be driving. I have a p/t job where I work at home, so usually driving on an off-day isnt an issue - I just dont. The DVLA have given me a 3 year licence after consulting the neurologist, PD nurse and my GP but I think its up to me when I drive or not, Im responsible for my own actions and the consequences of driving if Im unfit. I would say: stop and think first before getting behind the wheel.

[wordworks2001]

I was diagnosed 15 years ago and am 64. My driving skills are still excellent. I've been a licensed driver for 48 years, have never had an accident and am perfectly capable of making the decision to quit driving because of my PD.

[Owenbob]

I'm 80 and still driving. I think I do petty well. The most bothersome thing is that I lose my way -lived here for70 years and can still get lost.Everything looks as though it is new to me. PD worse on mind than on body. No tremors, but can't write, balance terrible, much softer voice and hard to understand. And very tired all the time.

[carolynartist]

I have PD and haven't driven for two years. I sometimes feel I can drive, however my doctors say NO WAY. I think this is also due to the fact I have a vision loss as well as the coordination ability is such were my reflexes are not as sharp. Besides the medications have a tendency to make me very dizzy. So i still have my license, but don't drive. I don't like the idea, but on the otherhand, it is for safety first, both for others and myself.

[Leftlegstuckagain]

I took a concious effort to give up driving in 2009 before I killed someone. I dont believe here in Britain that there are enough safeguards to keep those at risk to themselves and others from behind the wheel (27 yrs Police Service). In UK the onus is on the individual to notify DVLA of your condition and truthfully complete a form (we just love forms here) and submit it direct. The DVLA may contact your GP but my experience suggests that is seldom done. So if you dont feel safe , dont drive.

[Court]

I have had Parkinsons for about 5 years. I had to inform the DVLA (I live in UK).

I am given a license which I have to apply to have renewed every three years.

I never drive during my 'off' times so feel I am a pertectly safe driver.

[harding55]

I've had PD for about 5 years and for the first 3 I wouldn't take meds. My driving scared me so bad for awhile that my husband told my Dr and he was going to pull my license. But I agreed to the meds and my driving was back to normal - now sometimes my driving gets a bit off again. They are up for renewal this year and I hope I don't have any problems.

[Melodysam1890]

I'm only 61, but I can gauge the days that I should NOT drive. Every day is not the same. Some days I feel strong, without tremors, and my reflexes are good and a short distance works out well - there are other days when I feel very vulnerable, the tremors are more prominent and I am very fatigued. I drive only when it's a really GREAT day for me physically - other days I ask my husband to drive. I find there's always someone available to drive if I need the help - it's too dangerous and very selfish to take chances with other people's lives.

[jazzfan53]

I'm 58, diagnosed 8 years ago. I avoid driving at night since oncoming headlights make it impossible for me to see. Most of the time during the day I'm ok but I live in New Jersey (USA) and I hate to drive since people in this state are the WORST in the nation.

[srarndt]

Also 58, diagnosed in early '05, but had it for a year or two b4 dx.

Still have my license, DBS helps me drive a whole bunch!

[Crosshalls]

Had to take a re assessment test today,they dont give you a answer straight away,they send the results to the DVLA,and the make a decision along with your medical report,so keeping my fingers crossed,mwill let you know the results

[pam1956]

I have parkinson for 3year and still have mine DL

[Hidden]

I am 33 and two years diagnosed. I drove a fuel tanker for 10 years prior to diagnosis. At diagnosis the DMV took my CDL which resulted in the loss of my job. I was allowed to keep my standard driver's license. I have struggled greatly with this driving issue. At 33 (and having all those road miles behind me in a big truck) I desperately want to drive. However, I know my reaction times are slower. My perception is off. My sight is rapidly deteriorating with double vision. I also forget where I am and have felt lost to the point of terror on roads I have traveled everyday for years. I just recently gave it up. I know from being a professional driver of hazardous materials (and basic common sense) that I am not safe behind the wheel, In two weeks when I see my neuro I am gonna seriously talk to him about surrendering my license completely. I really believe in my heart that this safegaurd is necessary to keep me from acting irrational and selfish and risking others lives.

[AAM2011]

I agree with this post. I have a brother in law that still insist on driving. He falls asleep alot on the couch, what more, driving? I would not want to be on the road while he is driving.

[joesoap583 in reply to AAM2011]

Then you may be legally obliged to inform the authorities. Otherwise you could be guilty of an offence. You cant just look the other way - how would you feel if your relative took out a child when driving?