Driving with Diabetes

[wazza]

Relative has been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. He is given a course of tablets and strict diet to keep it under control. He has not suffered the usual symptoms but had been advised a blood test because he is obese. He was shocked to learn his blood sugar level is 10 which means he is diabetic. He was told matters will improve if he loses weight.

He has been told to notify the DVLA and his insurance company. Regarding DVLA does he fill a form from the post office or write them a letter?

Has anyone experienced the above? Did their motor insurance premium go up? Any restriction from DVLA?

thanks in advance

[scatz]

My brother is diabetic but out of the country at the moment so, unfortunately, I cannot ask him exactly how it affects your license. However, all you need to do initially is inform the DVLA, probably best to ring them as you can raise any concerns you have with them there and then which they will be able to advise you on.

I do recall that my brother has to have a medical examination every 'x' amount of years to ensure his ability to drive would not be hindered in any way (eyesight etc). Obviously, if this examination were to be failed then, I assume, the license would have to be surrendered!!

Lastly, I do not believe there are any restrictions they impose, but don't take my word for that.

[roger_c]

Diabetes UK, the biggest uk diabetes charity has an excellent section on its website.

http://www.diabetes.org.uk/Guide-to-diabetes/Living_with_diabetes/Everyday_life/Driving_and_diabetes/

I am a type 1 diabetic, and have to go through the medical questionaire (nothing more) every 5 years. They ask for your doctor and clinic name and address and I presume they ask the doctor if there is anything wrong with your control.

I've never had a problem yet. Not sure about the insurance issue, sorry. Hope this is of some help to you.

[wazza]

just wondering does my relative have to tell the DVLA and insurance company at the same time or wait for the feedback from the DVLA?

with type 2 diabetes do DVLA put any restrictions on your licence?

[wazza]

update

we emailed DVLA last night and rang them this morning as a back up. They will send a letter stating that there is no restriction since he is on tablets and a diet.

rang insurance company. they put a note on the file and there is no increase in premium as long as DVLA has imposed no restrictions