Unsafe driver

I think I'd chase the doctor again.

Have you said anything to him? He may being concerned too but unable to face the prospect of possibly moving house to keep his independence.

I suspect doctors are reluctant to get involved. We spoke to dad's GP in similar circumstances, after having tried and failed to persuade dad that using taxi's wouldn't cost more than running his car. The GP listened but did nothing. A run in with a bus, in which the bus was at fault, finally made dad accept his driving days were over. It was very sad and I empathise with you friend. I'm sure I'll cling to independence if I'm lucky enough to be around long enough to reach the stage of life when I need outside help.

Your final questions are good ones Mishap, should you take action, and why you. Your friend is in denial and his family seem to be in a similar place. If you know any of the family well enough you could talk to them. You're no longer at work, so you don't have to take responsibility for this situation. Old habits die hard.

I'm not being critical, some of us have a greater sense of social responsibility than others. My husband called into the police station recently, after following an elderly man the 3 miles into town. In that short journey, the guy missed a red light, wandered on to the other side of the road, narrowly avoided a collision with a bus and then found his car rolling backwards on a hill, in waiting traffic. The desk civilian appreciated my husband was concerned, not sticking his nose in where it wasn't wanted.

Sorry Nfk, x posted there

It's a decision all of us have to make one day. Better made before someone gets injured though.

It is difficult as I have done the right thing once after much heart searching and it got me nowhere.

This person has just suffered a very tragic bereavement of a child and I feel so bad at even thinking of contributing further to his distress. But I rally do understand all the arguments about his potential danger. It is further compounded by his unfailing trust in me, because I was able to help him in various ways that meant a lot to him shortly after the stroke.

You can report him anonymously to the DVLA.

What concerns me here is how someone with such an unfortunate medical history can still be getting insurance.

Anyway Mishap, I can understand your moral dilemma - but I am sure that deep down, despite all that's happened to this chap he would not want to be the cause of anyone else's unhappiness or grief should his driving cause an accident. You've done the right thing so far and I think a call to the DVLA might be a good way to go.

I'm not convinced DVLA will/can do anything.
You say that his family have broached the subject but not too vigorously because they'd have to chauffeur him - could you reinforce to them just how dodgy his driving is and make clear it's their responsibility to stop him driving?
The reason I don't think DVLA or the police will do anything is from my experience with an acquaintance trying to stop his alcoholic ex-wife from driving. Neither wanted to know.......yet she was too drunk to stand up when she drove, on many occasions, for more drink!

The DVLA can revoke his licence if he is considered dangerous (I believe they have a duty to investigate if they are informed) as happens with dementia patients that don't realise they are a danger to others and their selves.

The GMC has issued clear guidelines* applicable to such circumstances, which state:
1. The driver is legally responsible for informing DVLA about such a condition or treatment. However, if a patient has such a condition, you should explain to the patient:
a) That the condition may affect their ability to drive (if the patient is incapable of understanding this advice for example because of dementia, you should inform DVLA immediately) and,
b) That they have a legal duty to inform DVLA about the condition.
2. If a patient refuses to accept the diagnosis, or the effect of the condition of their ability to drive, you can suggest that they seek a second opinion, and help arrange for them to do so. You should advise the patient not to drive in the meantime.
3. If a patient continues to drive when they may not be fit to do so, you should make every reasonable effort to persuade them to stop. As long as the patient agrees, you may discuss your concerns with their relatives, friends or carers.
4. If you do not manage to persuade the patient to stop driving, or you discover that they are continuing to drive against your advice, you should contact the DVLA immediately and disclose any relevant medical information, in confidence, to the medical adviser.
5. Before contacting DVLA, you should try to inform the patient of your decision to disclose personal information. You should also inform the patient in writing once you have done so.
(*Reproduced with kind permission of the General Medical Council) – Full information on GMC guidelines can be viewed on www.gmc-uk.org

The bits about needing agreement or informing the patient will make it difficult for Mishap.
I think still that telling his relatives is the best way which puts the onus firmly in their court.

Mishap I know this is a difficult situation, but the family won't do anything unless really pushed.
Personally, I would speak to the police and inform the DVLA that you have done so.
How would you, and his family, feel, if one of your family or a child was hurt by him driving on the wrong side of the road, when you all know how bad he is?

I don't think the police can do anything unless an officer actually witnesses erratic or dangerous driving, and it's no wonder GPs are reluctant to take any action given all the steps they have to take as laid down by the guidelines.

Informing the DVLA would seem to be the best course of action in this case.