DVLA to 'revoke' more than 600,000 driving licences - how to check if you're at risk
by Luke Chillingsworth · ChronicleLiveOver 600,000 drivers are being warned they could lose their driving licence due to a simple DVLA rule regarding certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy and strokes. Individuals who have experienced a seizure in the past 12 months could be deemed unfit to drive and risk having their licence revoked.
According to the regulations, drivers who have had a seizure while awake and lost consciousness in the past year will likely have their driving licence taken away. This measure aims to ensure the safety of both the driver and other road users.
As Greg Wilson, car insurance expert and CEO at Quotezone.co.uk, explained: "In order to be able to drive you must have been seizure-free for 12 months, if someone is said to have had a seizure whilst awake, their licence will be revoked and after six months they may be able to have it back with a medical advisors go ahead."
With approximately 630,000 people living with epilepsy in the UK, this rule could impact a significant number of drivers. The GOV.
UK website advises: "You must tell DVLA if you've had any epileptic seizures or blackouts. You must stop driving straight away.", reports Nottinghamshire Live.
Failure to report a medical condition that affects driving can result in a fine of up to £1,000, and drivers may be prosecuted if they're involved in an accident as a result. However, having a licence revoked does not necessarily equal a permanent ban from driving.
New provisions for drivers who suffer a seizure due to changes in their anti-epilepsy medication have been announced, allowing them to reapply for their licence more swiftly. If the seizure took place over six months ago and the driver has reverted to the original medication, they may be allowed to drive again.
Moreover, individuals who experience seizures that don't affect consciousness might still qualify for a licence, particularly if their initial seizure was over a year ago, with no loss of awareness. GOV.
UK has issued additional advice: "DVLA will let you know whether or not you qualify after you've filled in the form. Until you hear from them you must stop driving."
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