There are certain medical conditions which affect your ability to drive, and which your car insurance cover provider must therefore be made aware of. Although you may live perfectly happily and safely on a day to day basis, when it comes to insurance, getting behind the wheel with a health condition is another matter.
If you have poor eyesight, diabetes, neurological conditions or heart problems, you must inform your car insurance provider and make the DVLA aware as soon as possible.
These health conditions could affect your car insurance for the following reasons:
Poor eyesight
Good eyesight is invaluable on the road; it is essential to see upcoming hazards and react accordingly.
Although many drivers wear eye glasses, more serious eye conditions such as glaucoma or cataracts will severely impede your vision, and therefore affect your ability to drive.
Diabetes
Although most diabetics will self-inject their insulin on a daily basis and manage their own health – this might not always be possible. Perhaps circumstances beyond their control mean that they cannot access their insulin which could possibly lead to a coma.
If a diabetes sufferer lapses into a coma whilst driving, the consequences could be tragic for all involved.
Neurological Conditions
Neurological conditions such as epilepsy may affect your ability to drive.
Many epileptics do drive safely, however this is only after their doctor has given them the all clear.
If you suffer from epilepsy, you will need to consult your doctor or specialist who will assess how severe your condition is in line with the Driving and Vehicle Licensing Authorities guidelines.
Heart Problems
Angina, tachycardia or a narrowing of the arteries must all be declared when you sign up for car insurance or enter for your driving test.
If you have these conditions, you must receive a clean bill of health from your doctor in order to drive. These heart problems could lead to a heart attack whilst driving, which would pose a great danger on the road.
When purchasing car insurance, you will be asked a variety of health related questions; it is important to respond truthfully and fully at all times.
Your insurance may not be valid if anyone who drives the car suffers from a medical condition which affects their ability to drive.