The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is issuing a warning to drivers that they could face fines if they do not declare mental health conditions that may affect their ability to drive safely. The alert comes on Blue Monday, January 20, which is recognized as the 'saddest day of the year', highlighting the impact of poor mental health on motorists. Conditions like depression and anxiety can impair judgment, reaction times, and concentration, potentially putting drivers and others at risk. The DVLA emphasizes that drivers diagnosed with severe depression or anxiety must inform them if their condition or medication could compromise their driving. Failing to report can lead to fines of up to £1,000 and potential prosecution if involved in an accident due to the condition. It's also crucial to inform car insurance providers about any mental health conditions, as non-disclosure might invalidate insurance.
The DVLA is warning drivers that they could be fined if they do not declare a condition that affects 8.7 million people.
It's believed depression and anxiety can have an impact on drivers' decision making, their reaction times and also their concentration. If these critical duties are impaired, drivers may not be safe behind the wheel. Many medications commonly prescribed for depression, such as sedatives or antidepressants, can cause side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or even blurring of vision. These side effects can significantly impact a driver’s ability to drive safely, particularly during the dark winter months when visibility and road conditions are already challenging, reports Plymouth Live.
DRIVING MENTAL HEALTH DVLA FINES DEPRESSION ANXIETY
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