DMV disclosure, yes or no?
I am wondering how most insulin-dependent folks here answer the question on driver's license forms about whether you have any disease or condition that affects your ability to drive safely. I usually say "no" because in my 44 years of D and driving, no driving problems that way... But I feel kind of guilty about it?
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Chris Miller on -
At least in Canada, you are obliged to disclose that you have diabetes when you go for your driver's license renewal and car insurance. You won't be charged higher rates or kept from driving. But especially with insurance, if you were in an accident and weren't completely forthcoming about your diabetes, it could cause problems for you.
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Permalink Reply by Spock on -
I used to need a note from my doctor when I renewed my license, but no more. As far as I can remember (I have had the same auto insurance for 36 years) I was not asked about diabetes or other health problems...except seizures, which I have never had.
The way that question is phrased, I think you are OK--no problems in 44 years, it does not affect your ability to drive.
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Permalink Reply by trinsmum on -
I understand you completely. I also say no. (Im 41) have never had an accident (knock on wood) and just feel that if I disclose this private information, that they have some reason should something happen to make it easier to take away my license.
Some people I know will say that Im being irresponsible and maybe I am..but I have had D for 36 years complication free (keep knocking on that wood) and I just feel its really my business.
I must admit that I do feel a slight twinge of guilt when they ask and I say "no"...and I do wonder if there would be any repercussions should this be discovered...
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Permalink Reply by JohnG on -
Non-Commercial Driver's Licenses
The Texas driver's license application specifically asks if you have insulin-dependent diabetes. While diabetes that doesn't require the use of insulin will not bar someone from receiving a driver's license, insulin-dependent (usually known as Type 1) diabetics require special permission. Your doctor must fill out an evaluation form, based on an office visit from the previous 12 months, confirming that you have not had an episode of hyoglycemia or hyperglycemia that significantly impaired your functioning or caused loss of consciousness. If you have had such an incidence in the previous year, or if your blood glucose is not well-controlled, you may be denied a license.
Insulin-dependent diabetics are reviewed for eligibility on an annual basis. Newly-diagnosed diabetics, or those who have recently switched doctors, will be re-evaluated for eligibility in six months.
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Permalink Reply by Timothy on -
I always say no to those questions. My driving record is perfect. IF you say yes to that you will invite a lot of trouble for yourself. In California you need to get a note from your doctor every year to keep your license current, Also no insurance carrier will take you, You then Have to apply for assigned risk insurance which has low coverage and the rates are sky high, I looked into it maybe 10 years ago. The premiums were 4x the regular rate.
People with pacemakers are not required to have doctors notes. Read the declaration in your state or province. It singles out diabetics and Epileptics only.
It is an odd thing because I don't think I ever remember hearing about an accident caused by a diabetic driver. I am sure it happens, but I have not heard about it.
They should charge higher rates for people who have cell phones and dark tinted windows and people who have anger issues before they broadly ban Diabetics.
In the US insurance is only offered to people who don't need it. Medical insurance is the same way. I can't even get medical insurance. I have to go through a state run program and it is more expensive than standard.
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Permalink Reply by kccosmo on -
You said you don't remember hearing about an accident caused by a diabetic driver. Let me tell you about my son. Six years ago my 20 year old son and his girlfriend were struck and killed by a truck driven by a man driving in a diabetic coma due to extremely low BG levels. So for everybody who does not tell the DMV that they are a diabetic driver, please test before driving and then retest if you drive more than an hour.
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Permalink Reply by earthling on -
Oh dear, I am so very sorry to hear of this. No way to get over such a thing, ever. Some PWDs have hypo-unawareness too, so your testing advice is important and sound.
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Permalink Reply by still_young_at_heart on -
In Massachussetts the question is whether you have a condition or take any medication that can cause a change in consciousness. Insulin fits the criteria and I said yes. I needed a letter from my endo but that was it. I agree with Chris that not being truthful enough for the insurance company (and the state)is opening yourself up for more risk than you should want.
Maurie
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Permalink Reply by barbraann on -
In Michigan I don't recall every being asked that question by the state licensing people or my insurance and would never even consider bringing it up. If it is asked somewhere then I have never answered yes and would never even consider answering in the affirmative. So it's no until it happens, if it ever happens.
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Permalink Reply by Shawnmarie on -
Here's a resource from the ADA where you can view the DMV requirements for each state:
http://www.diabetes.org/living-with-diabetes/know-your-rights/discr...
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Permalink Reply by Bobbie1000 on -
Thanks, that's helpful.
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