DVLA and Peripheral Neuropathy advice please

[yelxo]

Hi,
I am rather hoping to find information and advice regarding my new diagnosis of PN. I have actually had symptoms of an amount of numbness and tingling to my feet and lower legs for about 3 years that I am aware of, but have only seen a Specialist who diagnosed in the last month or so.

At my consultaion, he never raised the question of my competence to drive, and it didnt even occur to ask. I found out it was a notifiable medical condition, so I did the responsible thing and notified the DVLA.
I am approaching my 73rd birthday in June, and was due to have my licence renewed, but now the DVLA have written to me and informed me they will be asking the Consultant about my condition.

This is causing me a great deal of anxiety. I have continued driving my manual car since I was first aware of my symptoms, and have complete and smooth control of clutch,brake and accelerator at all times, even when in congested slow moving traffic, when awareness and operating all pedals are demanding. I have never thought my capability would be an issue but I am concerned about the process, and cant seem to find any answers to my online searches, which seem to direct me to the DVLA website, or American sites which arent really relevant.

Does anyone have experience with the DVLA with regard to their Investigation, which seem rather prescriptive to me and doesnt take into account my individual circumstances. I have driven since the age of 17, no offences or blameworthy accidents.
My diagnosis includes details such as "significant neuropathy to feet and ankles" and muscle strength of legs 4/5, no tremors etc. It seems strange that they test sensitivity in your bare feet with a light touch, which one wouldnt feel on the soles of shoes in any event...

Any advice, guidance or indeed comments would be very much appreciated.

 

[Leadinglights]

I think the DVLA are trying to make sure they keep everyone safe.
A friend has had to have his car converted to hand controls because he was unable to feel his feet, it only came home that it was a problem when he had an accident.
You could ring the DUK helpline for advice tomorrow.

 

[Inka]

Welcome @yelxo 🙂 Sorry this is causing your anxiety. I can understand why. I don’t have any direct experience of this but if you think of it as more of a check that you’re still ok to drive rather than because they think you aren’t ok, that might help. Once you have a condition that triggers a check, then the DVLA will act but it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to drive. They’re just checking all’s ok.

 

[yelxo]

Thanks both for the replies. I did try ringing Diabetes UK before posting this @Leadinglights , but lines were busy, which you can expect this time of the year.

Thanks for the warm welcome @Inka Anxiety may be too strong a description, more a frustration as to the lack of resources as to where to get information. I have already paid for a ferry to take my caravan to Spain in May so I'm relying on perfect timing re a decision. IF I were to be restricted to driving an adapted car, its unlikely to be possible to convert my present car, not that I personally think it necessary, but if I WERE to replacce with an Auto, theres the consideration of sourcing one, having a tow bar fitted if needs be, then also adapting its use, in addition to the financial outlay.

Ideally, I wont get a decision until I get home from holiday, then I can consider what to do as and when the time arises. I just seem to be between a rock and a hard place.

Hopefully anyone else that has found themselves in the same boat might be able to offer their experience...