Sleep disorders could see Brits receiving £1,000 fine if they don't tell the DVLA

Drivers with certain health conditions could face hefty fines if they fail to inform the DVLA about their condition.

Certain conditions, such as vision problems, can directly impact driving and must be reported to the DVLA. However, there are also a number of other conditions that can affect a person's ability to drive safely, and failing to notify the DVLA can result in severe penalties.

This includes several sleep disorders that drivers need to report to the DVLA. One of the main concerns is narcolepsy, a disruptive sleep disorder that causes excessive daytime sleepiness.

Narcolepsy is often depicted in popular media for its symptoms where sufferers experience uncontrollable episodes of falling asleep, sometimes without much warning. This can be extremely dangerous if a driver experiences an episode while driving.

While having narcolepsy does not necessarily prevent someone from driving, they do need to inform the DVLA about their condition.

People with excessive sleepiness, a separate condition, must also alert the DVLA as it can be hazardous when driving. This condition often results in difficulty concentrating but can usually be managed with lifestyle changes.

The general advice is that people experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness should avoid driving until their symptoms have subsided.

Drivers are being urged to inform the DVLA if they suffer from the sleep disorder, sleep apnoea, which can interrupt breathing or stop it entirely during sleep, leading to drastic consequences for road safety.

According to a spokesperson from Winstons Beds: "It's imperative for those diagnosed with such conditions to inform the DVLA. This is not only a legal obligation but a crucial step to ensure both their own safety and the safety of others on the road. Symptoms like excessive sleepiness mean you could potentially fall asleep while driving, posing a significant risk."

Notifying the DVLA of any medical condition affecting one's ability to drive is legally required, and failure to disclose such information could result in a fine of up to £1,000.

Drivers can communicate their health concerns to the department via an online form.