Doctors’ Predictions and Final Year Driving Decisions

When a doctor informs you that within a year you will no longer be capable of driving a motor vehicle, the decision on what to do with your current car can be quite tricky. This article explores various scenarios, from buying an exotic car to proving the doctor wrong and choosing practical options.

Exotic Cars for the Last Year

Some may consider getting a fancy, exotic car, like a convertible or a new Corvette, as an option. These cars are often seen as a status symbol and can be quite expensive. However, one might manipulate the badge of the car, gluing a falsified Ferrari badge, to appear more desirable. This is often done to impress a trophy wife or a significant other who might be impressed and fall for the illusion.

Of course, this approach comes with risks. If the relationship does not last, or the other party finds out about the fake badge, it can lead to disappointment and potential issues. Therefore, it’s important to consider the long-term implications of such a decision.

Proving the Doctor Wrong

One of the most crucial steps is to put more effort into proving the doctor wrong rather than worrying about the next car. However, if the doctor’s prediction turns out to be correct and you need to change your car, the motivating factor would most likely be the need for a vehicle that is easier to get in and out of, both as a passenger and a driver.

Considering your mobility constraints, a larger crossover or minivan might be a better option. If the disability is severe, a van with a lift ramp equipped to secure a wheelchair might be the most suitable option. In cases where the disability is terminal, doing nothing might be the best course of action. Your partner could simply hire a vehicle and follow you in their current compact crossover.

Sticking with the Current Vehicle

In some cases, it might be more practical to keep the current vehicle. Buying a new one might not be beneficial since you won't be able to use it for long. It’s important to remember that doctors often make predictions that are inaccurate, and a more appropriate description might be a "wild guess."

Many medical professionals I’ve known are either brilliant or lousy. There’s a wide range of variability in the quality of doctors, and their predictions can range from accurate to wildly off. Personal experiences also show that some procedures that were once considered ineffective or bizarre are now standard.

The Flawed Idolization of Doctors

While society often puts doctors on a high pedestal, I’ve met too many who are in the profession for the money and power rather than for the good of their patients. This can lead to unnecessary prolongation of life, causing suffering rather than providing relief. However, it’s also true that there are many doctors who deserve respect and admiration.

Ultimately, the decision to get a new car or stick with the old one depends on your personal circumstances and the severity of the disability. The key is to make a decision that ensures your safety and comfort during your final year of driving.