Drivers living with arthritis are being warned they could face a substantial fine of up to £1,000 and further legal repercussions if they fail to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about their condition.
The Legal Requirement for Medical Disclosure
According to guidance from the charity Arthritis UK, motorists have a legal duty to notify the DVLA if their arthritis compromises their ability to drive safely. This same requirement is triggered if a driver begins using specially adapted vehicle controls to manage their condition.
However, it is crucial to note that not every individual diagnosed with arthritis is automatically obliged to make a report. The key factor is whether the condition impacts driving competence. Graham Conway, Managing Director at Select Car Leasing, clarified the distinction: "A prescription for arthritis medication won't necessarily warrant you having to tell the DVLA about it."
Consequences of Non-Disclosure
Failing to declare a relevant medical condition to the authorities carries serious penalties. Mr Conway explained that drivers could be hit with a fine of up to £1,000, have their car insurance invalidated, and potentially face "further legal action" in the event of an incident.
The disclosure must also extend to your car insurance provider. By law, any medical condition reported to the DVLA must also be shared with your insurer. Insurers are not permitted to charge you extra for your cover unless they can provide clear evidence that your specific condition elevates your risk profile.
While declaring a condition can sometimes make obtaining quotes more complex, experts advise using comparison sites to find the most suitable and fairly priced policy.
Medication and Adaptation Advice
A critical secondary warning concerns medication. Mr Conway highlighted that some treatments for arthritis can induce side effects like sleepiness or drowsiness, which severely impair driving ability. "Talk to a medical professional about potential symptoms and how they might impact your ability to drive," he urged.
For those considering vehicle adaptations, the process is different. Arthritis UK states that simply having arthritis does not require you to mention it to the DVLA. However, if you adapt your car with special controls to facilitate driving, you must inform the agency. If you are unsure whether you need adaptations, the DVLA can assess your situation.
Organisations like Driving Mobility UK can provide an independent assessment to determine an individual's specific adaptation needs, ensuring they can continue to drive safely and within the law.
