Motorists could be fined heavily and even be banned from driving
Convictions for drug driving last 11 years(Image: Julien Behal/PA Wire)
The DVLA can ban motorists in some circumstances if they use one of several common medications. DVLA officials may also advise road users to “avoid driving” if they take to the road whilst under the influence of common medicines.
Greg Wilson, motoring expert at Quotezone.co.uk, has cautioned: “If you are on strong medications, it is likely that you will be recommended to avoid driving.”
Greg identified three medications as presenting particular concern: opioid painkillers, tranquillisers, and certain antidepressants. He said these are “examples of medicines that can affect driving ability – as well as those that cause drowsiness or say ‘do not operate heavy machinery'”.
You only need to inform DVLA if your depression impacts your ability to drive safely under the regulations. You can be fined up to £1,000 if you do not notify DVLA about a medical condition that affects your driving, said the agency.
And you may be prosecuted if you’re involved in an accident as a result. Consult your doctor if you’re not sure if your depression will affect your driving, reports Birmingham Live.
The UK Government website states: “It’s illegal in England, Scotland and Wales to drive with legal drugs in your body if it impairs your driving.” Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox
According to regulations, you must inform DVLA if you hold a driving licence and you develop a “notifiable” medical condition or disability OR a condition or disability that has deteriorated since you obtained your licence.
You are required to surrender your licence to the DVLA if your GP instructs you to stop driving for three months or longer; your health condition impacts your capability to drive safely and persists for three months or more; or you fail to meet the necessary standards for driving due to your medical condition.
The government website states: “Talk to your doctor about whether you should drive if you’ve been prescribed any of the following drugs.” These are:
amphetamine, for example dexamphetamine or selegilineclonazepamdiazepamflunitrazepamlorazepammethadonemorphine or opiate and opioid-based drugs, for example codeine, tramadol or fentanyloxazepamtemazepam
The website added: “You can drive after taking these drugs if you’ve been prescribed them and followed advice on how to take them by a healthcare professional; and they are not causing you to be unfit to drive even if you’re above the specified limits.”
The RAC highlighted: “Failing to inform the DVLA of a medical condition and a prescription that can affect your driving, can see you fined as much as £1,000.” Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now