Drivers may cause ‘life-changing accidents’ due to medical woes in DVLA warning 

Drivers may be putting themselves at serious risk by driving with medical conditions without even realising, a leading specialist has warned.

British motorists could be the cause behind “life-changing accidents” if they fail to take medical conditions seriously, according to safety experts. 

John Kushnick, Legal Operations Director of National Accident Helpline warned many are travelling in an “unfit state” with some completely “unaware of undiagnosed conditions”. 

He warned many drivers may not even know they have conditions until “symptoms materialise when behind the wheel”. 

This group of road users would have not purposefully kept details of a condition secret from the DVLA in order to keep their driving licence as they didn’t know they were ill. 

However, this demographic could still be a major hazard on the roads if they suddenly lose concentration while inside the cabin.

John suggested this is a crucial reason why road users should “stay on top of their health” as a matter of priority.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, he said: “It’s often that people are driving in an unfit state, unaware of any undiagnosed medical conditions, and cause life-changing accidents because symptoms materialise when behind the wheel, such as epileptic fits or an undetected heart condition. 

“These instances highlight the importance of drivers staying on top of their health and get clear advice from their doctors on whether they should be driving or not.

“DVLA doctors can also be contacted to provide advice and recommendations on fitness to drive. While an adjustment will have to be made to the individual's travel arrangements, it is a necessary sacrifice to keep our roads as safe as possible.”

Motorists who think they have a medical condition which impacts their ability to drive must contact the DVLA immediately. 

Officials have identified over 100 conditions which could put motorists at risk including less obtrusive issues such as alcohol dependency and sleep apnea. 

Britons can report their medical conditions through an online service or by printing off and filling out a paper application.

DVLA officials will then decide whether or not motorists can keep their licence after conducting an investigation.

However, simply ignoring the issue is not a solution with drivers likely to be punished for sitting on their hands. 

GOV.UK confirms any road users who fail to report their medical conditions to the DVLA could be skipped with a hefty £1,000 fine.