Safe driving for seniors
After the age of 70, Group 1 (car and motor cycle) driving licenses are renewed every three years, and the application involves a medical self declaration.
Most people are happy to undergo the application process, not wanting to endanger themselves or other road users, and simply wishing to remain on the right side of the law.
There are cases when your GP will advise you not to drive due to a particular medical condition or, for example, while you’re recovering from an operation. GPs are expected to persist with this advice and, when it is not heeded, to disclose their concerns to the DVLA and your licence may be revoked.
There are a variety of medical conditions, identified by the Secretary of State’s Honorary Medical Advisory Panels, that a sufferer is expected to notify the DVLA about. These include epilepsy, heart problems, neurological disorders, psychiatric disorders, visual problems, drug and alcohol dependency, renal, respiratory and sleep problems and diabetes.
If you suffer from any of these conditions, it is worth checking with your GP whether you are fit to drive and whether you should notify the DVLA – the requirements are quite specific and sufferers have to fit certain criteria to be subject to driving restrictions.
Usually, medical reports will be sought and whether an individual must refrain from driving and when they can resume activities behind the wheel depends upon strict guidelines relating to their particular condition.
As a general guide, people whose medical conditions are likely to distract them while they are driving or might impair their ability to drive safely need to question whether they should be at the helm of a car. If a medical condition is worsening, it is always wise to take advice.
It can be difficult to come to terms with a perceived loss of liberty if driving restrictions are imposed upon you. It’s also worth remembering that insurance cover is only valid for drivers who are fit for purpose, and an uninsured accident can be tricky and costly to deal with. It’s better to be safe than sorry.