Driving after the Op ???

[Karen19745]

Does anyone know how long it is before you can drive after the operation? Physically and for insurance purposes.

 

[lisa x]

I asked this at the L&d.
I was told I couldn't drive for two weeks and only after my GP had seen me to say I was ok to drive.
I was told you must be able to do a emergency stop without discomfort.
hth xx

 

[Mixman]

Some people are fine after a few days but Sheffield recommend 3 weeks before driving after a bypass/sleeve and a week after the band. This is for your own safety due to perhaps having to do an emergency stop etc.

Insurance purposes are company specific. It's related to the general anaesthetic with them

 

[blueeyes]

I was the same as Lisa. Told not to drive for two weeks and after I felt comfortable doing an emergency stop, I started driving again. The emergency stop can be harmful to your insides due to you tensing up and putting strain on all your stomach muscles etc, so it's best to wait for a while until your insides have healed somewhat. I would suggest asking your team for a guideline.
Not sure about insurance though. I never rang mine (maybe I should have).

 

[shelbell]

Yup you need to check with you insurer. Most say it's up to the doctor, but some have a set exclusion period for any general anaesthetic. Also, if your surgeon says 2 weeks and you drive after 1, your insurance is void.

Sent from my iPhone using Forum Runner

 

[DaisyMaesy]

The best thing is to check your insurance policy, mine said six weeks when I had my gall bladder out even though surgeon said two. They are really both giving you answers from different perspectives. Just remember if you don't follow the insurance guidelines you will not be insured and will be driving illegally.

 

[Karen19745]

Thanks everyone, I will ring my insurance company and find out what their restrictions are.

 

[christine77]

good question karen i'd never thought about it

 

[Kevin1708]

Always best to let the Insurance know and of course the DVLA . . . x