Neuropathy And Driving

Today's post is not so much a post, as a warning to people living with neuropathy that depending on the country they live in, there may be rules regarding being in control of a motor vehicle. What you see below is from the British Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency but different demands may apply depending on where you live.
The reasons are pretty obvious. It has to do with sensation and your 'feel' of the pedals and/or steering wheel. If you have limited sensation in feet or hands, you may not be able to respond appropriately to emergency situations on the road. In the Netherlands for instance, you need to go for a sort of examination of your reactions in an emergency stop situation. The pressure you can put on the brakes can be measured, to see if the car will come to an immediate stop (as it should). This shouldn't put you off driving. Many people see their cars as their only  form of independence but it is worthwhile checking to see if you are physically able to operate within the laws of the land and also if you are truly capable of driving safely. After all, it's not only your health that's at stake.
Remember too, the drugs you may be taking may also have an influence on your driving reactions and some drugs rule out driving completely!
 

Peripheral neuropathy and driving
 UK Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency

You must tell DVLA if you have peripheral neuropathy.

You can be fined up to £1,000 if you don’t tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving. You may be prosecuted if you’re involved in an accident as a result.

Car or motorcycle licence

You must tell DVLA. Fill in form CN1 and send it to DVLA. The address is on the form.

Bus, coach or lorry licence

You must tell DVLA. Fill in form CN1V and send it to DVLA. The address is on the form.

https://www.gov.uk/peripheral-neuropathy-and-driving