Many people continue to drive safely after their diagnosis. Speak to your doctor, who should be able to advise you on your own personal fitness as to whether you should or not. Parkinson’s can sometimes affect a person’s ability to drive because of the symptoms they experience or their reaction to medication. Remember too that due to the changing and progressive nature of Parkinson’s you may need regular checkups, just to check that you are still able to drive safely.
Note: If you do drive you must ensure that you comply with any legal obligations. These will depend on the laws of the country you live in, but those likely to be applicable in all European countries are:
- notifying your national driver and vehicle licensing body of your diagnosis. They will advise you of the steps you need to take to retain your driving licence. This may involve contacting your doctor to confirm your fitness to drive, a medical exam or driving test. Some countries may issue a licence for a fixed term, usually renewable provided your ability hasn’t deteriorated sufficiently to make you unfit to drive
- informing your insurance company. You should tell the company of any health change that may affect you’re driving. In most countries it is an offence under road traffic legislation to make a false statement or withhold information for the purposes of obtaining a certificate of motor insurance. Anyone who drives when considered unfit will invalidate their insurance cover.
- reporting any subsequent changes in your driving ability to the driver and vehicle licensing body and your insurance company.
Unfortunately some companies do apply extra charges to insurance premiums, despite the disability discrimination legislation that exists in many European countries. However you should be able to find a company that will provide a competitive quote, so set aside some time to shop around for a deal.
Your local Parkinson’s or disability organisation may have a list of recommended insurance companies or be able to advise further.
