Has anyone with RA notified the DVLA & if so what happened.

[RobbieM]

[stiffenlady]

You only need to tell DVLA if you have arthritis and you use special controls for driving.

[RobbieM in reply to stiffenlady]

I have rheumatoid arthritis

[RobbieM in reply to stiffenlady]

Just use an automatic car

[RobbieM in reply to stiffenlady]

Thank you a real weight off my mind

[mattcass]

Hi taji. Unless your RA affects your driving and it could be a danger to you or some one else, then the answer is no you do not have to inform the DVLA. Good Luck Matt

[RobbieM in reply to mattcass]

Many thanks Matt

[Hidden]

Hi Taji, If you follow this link it will take you to the DVLA page regarding arthritis. It confirms what Matt and Stiffenlady have told you. gov.uk/arthritis-and-driving

Paula x

[RobbieM in reply to Hidden]

Many thanks Paula

[Philip]

I really don't think they need to know anything because If it effects your driving then just don't drive until you feel it is time to drive again or hang up your keys for good.

Philip

[Hidden]

Hello

You only need to tell them if there is something that could restrict your concentration or if you have had a heart attack

My car has a host of adaptations, mostly fitted as extras on that car model including an automatic gear box, Also the car has a steering ball to assist with the wheel

Many disabled have WAV wheelchair adapted transport they have to pay for these and that is why Motability is there to assist

Many cars can have all hand controls, generally in some instances they may need to report these modifications. Motability again helps with regard to these changes.

If you are considering purchasing a an adapted car check the specifications before you buy the basic model sometimes it may pay to have fixtures fitted by the factory

All the best

BOB

[Hidden]

I am so pleased you have raised this. I havnt informed dvla but I do not drive anymore for 2 reasons, firstly my RA has a constant effect on my hands/wrists and I know for a fact that even with power steering which I imagine all have and a ball fitted there is no way I could take evasive action if for example a child walked out in front of me, I know I couldnt because even without holding a steering wheel and plenty of warning I cant move my hands/wrists that quickly. Secondly I am on high level doses of morphine based analgesia and tramacet both of which would and do seriously impair my ability to drive in the same way alcohol would. Not driving is a huge inconvenience and I hate relying on public transport and carers/friends for transport but I prefer that choice than the potential consequences of being in charge of a motor vehicle of which I am not fully in control. I make this decision as a responsible choice but I do honestly wonder if everyone is that honest with themselves. Having said that as a driver with 36 years of an unblemished and accident free record and having covered between 40 to 50,000 miles a year I have seen drivers who may or may not have any medical conditions but drive so badly as to be absolutely lethal, this includes one I know who hasnt had a car accident yet, he doesnt often use his car, but he has written off 6 mobility scooters in a year which HE puts down to his "poor vision"!.

I only pray that most of us are aware of our ability to drive safely regardless of age or infirmity and that this always remains a priority over the inconvenience of not driving.