Drivers have been urged to check whether they need to report any medical conditions to the DVLA (Image: Getty)
Brits have been urged to let the know if they have one of over 100 different in order to prevent accidents and .
Whilst driving is a key form of independence for many, could put motorists and surrounding road users at a , particularly when .
Greg Wilson, CEO of the service , stated that declaring any conditions is vital to keeping everyone safe on the roads and do not always result in a driving ban.
He explained: “Although fear of losing independence and transport can be devastating, it is vital to report any recent medical diagnosis to the DVLA if it will affect driving abilities.
“There are some conditions which are less well known for causing difficulties behind the wheel but these are just as important to make the DVLA aware of.”
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The DVLA requires drivers to declare around 110 different conditions and medicines (Image: Getty)
The DVLA currently has a list of around 110 different medical conditions that must be reported to them by drivers, which can be accessed on the Government’s website.
They include a number of common illnesses including diabetes, visual impairments and epilepsy as well as a variety of medications that motorists may need to take, such as anti-depressants and pain killers.
Whilst drivers with these conditions or medicines may feel perfectly confident behind the wheel of a car, they run the risk of issues such as drowsiness or limited vision, making it more difficult to react to sudden situations on the road.
If a driver finds that they do have a condition on the DVLA’s list, they should report it to the organisation as soon as possible, either online, via the phone, or through the post. In many cases, the issue will not stop motorists from being able to get behind the wheel entirely, instead limiting when they are able to use a vehicle or avoid driving for a fixed period of time.
Motorists who do not let the DVLA know about a medical condition that limits their ability to drive could face penalties including a fine of up to £1,000.
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Drivers who do not report medical conditions face a bigger likelihood of accidents and a £1,000 fine (Image: Getty)
Greg particularly urged older drivers to check whether any conditions they have are on the DVLA’s list, stating that a quarter of Brits know an elderly motorist who should not be on the road.
He added: “A recent Quotezone survey showed 25% knew an older driver who they thought shouldn’t be driving, with 27% saying they thought a medical check-up and an additional driving test should be introduced annually for everyone once they turn 70 years old.
“It’s important for drivers to stay safe and be on alert for any changes to their health, and if in any doubt, speak to the DVLA directly – keeping insurance providers updated to ensure the cover continues to protect them.”