Driving at work

[Paul Crowther]

Hello All

Just looking for some advice on driving at work and staying overnight solo for work. The situation is that my employer's insurance company won't cover me to a) drive anywhere on my own or with passengers and b) stay overnight anywhere on my own. I have type 1 diabetes.

I am an Engineering Manager which means occasionally attending training courses (where I am required to drive and stay overnight), and seminars, exhibitions (where I required to drive) etc. The insurance company and external HR company have said that I will not be allowed to do any of these until my Diabetes Consultant Doctor at my local hospital has written a letter stating the words 'Paul can drive on his own or with passengers' and 'Paul can stay overnight on his own'.

I have been through lots of emotional phases with this situation including approaching the CAB about a discrimination case and considering leaving my job. However, despite the circumstances, I do actually enjoy my job (with the exception of this situation) and don't really want to leave. As I think we all know, my doctor is not going to write those words because that then places the liability on him, and no respectable doctor I imagine would write those about anyone, diabetic or not, for the same reason.

So in the interests of keeping my job, I am wondering if anyone has had a similar situation and has any advice. I would also be interested to know if anyone has signed a disclaimer to remove the liability from their employer and if a template for such a disclaimer exists.

I am keen to hear your thoughts!

Many thanks,

Paul

 

[khskel]

I would give the DUK helpline a call for advice.
I presume you've had no problems with the DVLA and your licence?

 

[Paul Crowther]

I will do that! No problems with the DVLA since I've been driving.

 

[Copepod]

Have you approached your diabetes consultant? It seems that if they were willing to make the statements required, plus pointing out that DVLA are happy for you to drive, then that covers part of the issue. Regarding staying alone, are your employers seriously expecting you to share a room with a work colleague?!? Again, a statement from your consultant would clear up the sutuation.

 

[Pumper_Sue]

As you hold a full driving licence the ins company can not discriminate against you, it's illegal to do. There are many type1's who live on their own without a nanny in tow again this is discrimination.

 

[Radders]

As you hold a full driving licence the ins company can not discriminate against you, it's illegal to do. There are many type1's who live on their own without a nanny in tow again this is discrimination.

I think Sue is right, it's discrimination.