Can you drive with a drop foot?

Foot drop involves difficulty lifting the foot and so operating car pedals effectively can be a challenge. This can lead to a greater risk of accidents.  For progressive neurological disorders, foot drop will be a symptom that is likely to continue as a lifelong disability, and so a qualified medical professional should help you in your decision to continue to drive or not. However, adaptations can be made to make driving safer and more accessible. 

Vehicle Adaptations Available

Adaptations can be varied depending on which foot is affected and the severity of the foot drop. If the right foot is affected, then pushing down on the accelerator may be difficult. A left foot accelerator can be used to allow the left foot to control acceleration of the vehicle. Hand controls can also be used to operate the accelerator and the brakes, eliminating the need for foot pedals. Automatic transmissions can reduce the need for foot control in gear changes and pedal extensions can make it easier to reach the pedals. 

The Health Design Collective has developed a shoe for foot dop, and this may help to stabilise the foot and ankle, making it easier to operate the pedals. Wearing this shoe may therefore help people to carry on driving and to live independently for longer. If you would like to find out more about the shoe and be involved in testing the shoe. Then please use the contact us page to get in touch. 

DVLA Requirements and Guidance

The DVLA provides guidance on driving with medical conditions such as foot drop. It is essential that you inform them about any conditions that may affect driving. It is unlikely that you will automatically loose your driving license if you have foot drop, but you may need support and guidance to have adaptations made to your car. In any event you should speak to your health care professional for advice.