THOUSANDS of Irish drivers could face loosing their licenses over a medical conditions rule.
Drivers behind the wheel with medical conditions undisclosed to the National Driver License Service (NDLS) could face bans, fines and prosecutions in a new crackdown.
An eye test in a required document all learner drivers must present when applying for their learner permit.
However, there are a number of medical conditions that require an additional driver fitness test.
This includes conditions such as epilepsy, strokes, TIAs, sudden dizzy spells, memory or confusion problems and implanted cardiac defibrillators or pacemakers.
Diabetes treated by insulin or sulphonylurea tablets, alcohol or drug misuse or dependency, severe learning disabilities, serious mental health or psychological problems and chronic neurological condition such as multiple sclerosis, motor neuron disease, or Huntington’s disease are also included.
Eye problems that must be declared include any condition affecting your peripheral vision, total loss of sight in one eye and any condition affecting both eyes, or the remaining eye if the driver only has one eye.
Serious hearing problems must also be disclosed, along with sleep disorders such as Sleep Apnoea syndrome or Narcolepsy.
Parkinson’s disease in another one on the list as well as any type of brain surgery, brain abscess or severe head Injury involving in-patient treatment or a brain tumour or spinal injury or spinal tumour.
Any persistent problems with arms or legs which restricts driving to an automatic vehicle or an adapted vehicle must also be disclosed.
Arrhythmia and a history of heart attacks must also be reported to the NDLS.
Other conditions may be included so if you are unsure you should speak with your doctor about whether your condition impacts driving abilities.
You can also check NDLS website to see if your condition is listed.
However, referring to their list the NDLS said they or a doctor may decide you are unfit to drive.
On their website they state: “Please note the list of conditions above is not exhaustive so if you have any doubts about your physical or mental fitness to drive, please consult your doctor.”
DRIVING INSURANCE CHANGES
From the end of this month motor insurance companies will be required to collect the driver number of all people noted on the policy.
The legislation change kicks in from March 31, 2025.
The driver number is found printed beside 4d on your license or learner permit.
Main policy holders and any named driver will be required to provide this to their insurer.
If the number is not provided you will not be able to renew or initiate a policy.
The NDLS can be notified of medical conditions online or by post through a form available from their website.
Failure to inform the NDLS of a relevant medical condition can result in a €5,000 fine.
If you have not disclosed a relevant medical condition and it leads to an accident you could face prosecution.
Your insurance may also be void if your insurer is unaware of your medical status.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
If you do have a medical condition the NDLS advise it is your responsibility to manage it responsibly.
This includes taking any medication prescribed and not driving if it impairs you in any way.
You should also inform your insurance providor and the NDLS of any conditions that may impact your ability to drive safely.
You must also comply with the requirements of your licence as appropriate, this includes undergoing a periodic medical review.
And you must be sure to seek professional advice on your medical fitness to drive if you develop a medical condition during the term of your licence.
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