Arthritis can affect your ability to drive. With Arthritis your joints can swell and become stiff. This could result in limitation on bending or other movements. It is, therefore, more difficult to apply brakes, turn the steering wheel, use the accelerator pedal, wear or clip seat belts or move your head to have a clear view behind you.

These problems can make driving safely more difficult. In addition getting in and out of your vehicle becomes a problem if you have arthritis of the ankles, knees or hips.

You can still drive safely but get help, advise and reassurance from your family doctor. Check also that the medication you take for your arthritis does not affect your alertness and ability to drive effectively. Make sure your arthritis treatment does not make you drowsy.
If you are not sure what to do contact the Arthritis Foundation at 1-800-283-7800.

If you have been driving for some time before you develop arthritis, then you need to make note of two things. Is your arthritis affecting your ability to drive? Has it lasted more than three months? You need to notify the licensing authority. You also need to notify your insurance company. It is true that since the Disability Discrimination Act in UK, your insurance premium will not go up, but your Insurance Company will need to know of any changes in your health.

If you are thinking of learning to drive, and you are applying for a provisional license, make sure you include information about your arthritis on the form. Your driving test will be just as stringent as for anyone else. The driving inspector is more interested in your ability to drive correctly and how safe you are on the road.

Sometimes seat belts can be real bother for someone with arthritis. You may be tempted to request an exemption from wearing seat belts. If you are inclined to do this, please remember that should you have an accident, not wearing a seat belt leaves you open to further injury to your joints.

Dr. Phil Hariram.

Arthritis Guide.