Fitness to drive is defined by minimum medical standards set by the DVLA. A driver may feel broadly well, function normally day to day, and still fall outside the DVLA’s medical standards without realising it. From a road safety perspective, this creates a legal risk that exists long before it becomes visible.
Vehicle health checks are crucial before heading out on the road. They impact not only the health and safety of the driver but also other road users, yet not enough emphasis is placed on carrying out these health checks with the person controlling the vehicle; the driver.
According to the Office for National Statistics, around 32% of UK adults have high blood pressure, yet nearly 30% of those remain undiagnosed. That’s 4–5 million people in England alone – many of whom may be behind the wheel every day.
Other Resources:
DVSA resources
National Highways
Podcast – The Hidden Risk
Our partners
More information:
Contact us
Press and media
Support request
Privacy policy
Cookie policy
© National Highways 2025, Three Snowhill, Birmingham B4 6WR
