Failure to report a health condition

Failure to Report a Health Condition Regarding Driving in England and Wales

 

Understanding the Law

 

In England and Wales, drivers are legally required to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about any medical conditions that could affect their ability to drive safely. This requirement is outlined under the Road Traffic Act 1988 and various DVLA regulations. Failing to report such conditions is a serious offence and can lead to severe consequences.

 

Reportable Health Conditions

 

Certain health conditions must be reported to the DVLA, including but not limited to:

 

• Epilepsy

• Parkinsons

• Strokes

• High blood pressure

• Drug Misuse

• Severe mental health conditions

• Visual impairments

• Neurological disorders

• Heart conditions

• Diabetes (if it causes complications or severe hypoglycaemia)

• Sleep apnoea

 

It is essential to check the DVLA guidelines or consult with a medical professional if you are unsure whether a condition needs to be reported.

 

Penalties for Failure to Report a Health Condition

 

Failing to report a health condition that affects your driving can lead to serious penalties, including:

 

• A fine of up to £1,000

• Possible prosecution if you are involved in an accident as a result of your condition

• The risk of invalidating your car insurance

• Potential revocation of your driving licence
   

These penalties are intended to ensure that all drivers on the road are medically fit to drive, thereby maintaining road safety for everyone.

 

Do I have to surrender my licence if I have a notifiable health condition?

​

You have a legal duty to surrender your licence if your doctor advises you to stop driving for three months or more. Further, if you do not meet the fitness to drive standards because of your health condition, you will have to give up your licence. This is a set of standards that health professionals use to assess a patient’s fitness to drive.

 

Defending Against Charges of Failure to Report a Health Condition

 

If you are charged with failing to report a health condition, it is crucial to seek legal advice immediately. An experienced lawyer can examine the details of your case and explore possible defences. These might include demonstrating that you were unaware of the condition or that it did not impact your driving ability.

 

Get in touch with Joe Rawlings Now

​

If you have been accused of failing to report a health condition regarding driving, don't face it alone. Contact Joe Rawlings today for expert legal assistance. Joe specialises in defending failure to report health condition offences and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.