Millions of individuals suffering from one painful medical condition could be at risk of fines in 2026.
Motorists suffering from one type of medical condition could be at risk on the roads (Image: Getty)
Motorists suffering from a common medical ailment that impacts more than 10million people in the UK could be slapped with hefty fines due to DVLA rules. Arthritis is a serious joint condition that can lead to severe pain, stiffness, swelling and muscle weakness.
There are two types of arthritis that can affect the human body in different ways. Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis, a condition where the body attacks its own joints. Arthritis is just one of the conditions officials state must be declared to the DVLA, with road users facing fines if they keep their diagnosis a secret.
Arthritis can cause severe joint pain (Image: Getty)
Getting behind the wheel with some types of arthritis could be a risk, with motorists in pain possibly unable to safely control a vehicle.
GOV.UK explained: “You must tell DVLA if you use special controls for driving. Fill in form G1 and send it to DVLA. The address is on the form. Talk to your doctor if you’re not sure if your arthritis will affect your driving, or if you must tell DVLA about it.”
Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, stressed individuals face “further legal action” if they don’t report their arthritis to officials, our sister site BirminghamLive reports.
According to Arthritis UK, motorists only need to tell the DVLA if it’s affecting their ability to drive. The specialists claimed that road users suffering from arthritis might want to consider getting a car with an automatic transmission.
Meanwhile, they stressed extras such as a padded steering wheel, a neck support, moulded backrest and swivel cushions may also make motorists’ lives a lot easier. They explained that arthritis sufferers may be eligible for a Blue Badge, allowing individuals to park a lot closer in areas such as supermarkets.
Individuals may also be eligible for financial help or even fit the criteria to join the Motability scheme and lease a car. Certain Mobility Centres can also assess how the arthritis affects individual’s driving, comfort and position within the car.
Experts can advise arthritis sufferers how to load equipment such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters inside a vehicle. However, keeping the arthritis a secret is not an option, with road users likely to face a hefty financial hit.
GOV.UK explained: “You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not tell DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving. You may be prosecuted if you’re involved in an accident as a result.”
