Older drivers are being urged by experts to notify the DVLA of any medical conditions affecting their ability to drive, or they could face hefty penalties. According to data from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA), there are nearly six million licence holders in Britain over the age of 70, including 510 centenarians.
This group of senior driver, born in 1950 or beofre, are constantly reminded by road safety specialists of the importance of being fit to drive if they wish to continue. The law mandates that individuals with a driving licence must inform the DVLA when they develop a “notifiable” condition or disability, or if it becomes more severe post-licence acquisition.
Conditions that may impair one’s driving skills encompass diabetes, heart problems, sleep apnoea, epilepsy, strokes, and glaucoma. Failing to report such issues could lead to a fine of up to £1,000.
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Furthermore, should an accident occur due to an undeclared medical condition or disability, prosecutions might follow. Age UK, the prominent charity for older people, advocates for seniors to disclose their medical circumstances to the DVLA, emphasising that this doesn’t necessarily mean losing their licence.
Age UK’s guidance on its website indicates that safe drivers might just need to modify or adapt their vehicles: “You should be able to continue driving if your condition doesn’t affect your ability to drive safely. It might just be that you need to make some adjustments or adaptations to your car.”
The DVLA reserves the right to enquire about the health conditions of drivers of all ages who have disclosed.
Drivers with a medical condition are advised to seek an examination from their GP, consultant or local doctor. The information provided could influence the decision on whether they can continue driving.
Depending on the specific medical condition, drivers may face temporary rather than permanent revocation of their licence.