Drivers with certain medical conditions are being warned of fines they could face this winter as plummeting temperatures put millions at risk.
The Met Office has issued warnings to drivers across the country amid fears that weather conditions will worsen over the coming months.
While it stated that average conditions were most likely for the winter, there will be cold dips and even the potential for fog and snow over high ground in England, Scotland and North Wales.
Experts have cautioned that drivers who have not declared a common health issue could find themselves on the receiving end of a huge fine, and even risk being prosecuted.
With freezing temperatures expected in December, arthritis can flare up for many Britons, causing them a great deal of pain.
Arthritis UK states that drivers must inform the DVLA and their insurance provider if their condition impacts their ability behind the wheel.
The same applies if they use special controls for driving, although not all motorists need to declare their arthritis to the DVLA.
Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, said drivers can be fined up to £1,000 if they fail to tell the DVLA about a medical condition that impacts their ability behind the wheel.
He said: “It’s a sad fact that frigid winter temperatures can exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis, with colder weather ushering-in joint stiffness and reduced mobility.
“That can have an impact on someone’s ability to drive. A prescription for arthritis medication won’t necessarily warrant you having to tell the DVLA about it.”
The DVLA advises that drivers should talk to their doctor when deciding if they need to tell the DVLA if they think arthritis is having a significant impact on their ability.
Drivers can face huge consequences if they are involved in an accident as a result of their condition and they haven’t declared their ailment.
Not all drivers with arthritis need to inform the DVLA of their condition
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GETTYMr Conway warned that drivers could face a fine, have their insurance invalidated and even “further legal action”.
Some motorists who suffer from arthritis choose to make special adaptations to their vehicles to make them more comfortable to drive.
These could include steering wheel grips that allow them to continuously turn the wheel without taking their hand off the wheel.
Other measures include push and pull hand controls for the accelerator and brake if they suffer from arthritis in their legs.
Arthritis can have a huge impact on people’s driving ability
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GETTYThe expert suggested that drivers should break up longer journeys to avoid being uncomfortable when sitting in the same position for a long period of time.
This will be especially crucial given that millions of travellers with be driving home for Christmas over the coming weeks.
Mr Conway added: “Drivers who take medication for arthritis should be aware that some have side effects such as sleepiness or drowsiness.
“Talk to a medical professional about potential symptoms and how they might impact your ability to drive.”