The UK’s Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is urging drivers to declare medical conditions that could affect their ability to drive safely, highlighting sleep apnoea as a key example.
Sleep apnoea, which affects around 1.5 million people in the UK, causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep and can lead to dangerous daytime drowsiness.
The DVLA emphasizes that failing to report health issues like sleep apnoea can result in prosecution, fines up to £1,000, and even license suspension if the condition compromises driving safety.
People diagnosed with sleep apnoea are strongly advised to avoid driving unless their condition is effectively managed, typically with a CPAP machine—a device that helps keep the airway open during sleep.
Sleep apnoea most commonly involves the throat muscles relaxing and blocking airflow, leading to interrupted sleep and excessive tiredness. This impaired alertness can cause poor concentration and slower reaction times behind the wheel, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.
Ben Welham, motoring expert at Cinch, warns, “Excessive sleepiness caused by sleep apnoea can be extremely dangerous when driving.” The DVLA’s call to drivers is clear: Declare your condition promptly to protect yourself and others on the road.
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