In response to the proposed introduction of 10-year driver health checks, Robert Kingdom from fleet management specialist Masterlease, reckons the government isn’t going far enough when it comes to the safety of the nation’s drivers.The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is considering fitness to drive tests.
These include a series of minimum physical and mental requirements – including eyesight performance and reaction times – for drivers to retain their licences.
These licence checks will be repeated every 10 years. The aim is to reduce the number of unfit drivers on our roads.
I believe this announcement is long overdue. But it doesn’t go far enough in ensuring the safety of all drivers.
Statistics have shown that the over 70s are three times more likely to be seriously injured or killed driving than those aged 40-65.
In 2006 the DVLA dealt with 600,000 motorists whose physical ability to drive had to be re-certified: a 20% rise on the previous year.
The question has to be: how many motorists aren’t notifying the DVLA if their health changes? Or if they develop new medical conditions?
The business car industry has led the way in assessing driver fitness to drive. Many companies insist on regular eye tests. And set clear driver guidelines on conditions that may affect their ability to drive.
Due to a lack of information it is often the case that serious conditions, such as epilepsy, are declared. But less serious illnesses – such as sleep apnoea – may not be revealed. This may also have a knock-on effect on insurance coverage.
The DVLA needs to strike a balance. Mobility is an important personal freedom. But as drivers we all have responsibilities to society. And the safety of other road users.
If the government is really serious about driving down the number of road accidents then it should take its cue from the business car industry: this has an established track record in risk management.
Further information
If you would like to read more on the DVLA proposals, then this article in the Daily Telegraph is helpful.
