This document seeks to obtain the input and views of a broad range of stakeholders on current fitness to drive policy and procedures and to inform recommendations on development of policy for the future. The Road Safety Authority wishes to hear from drivers, medical professionals, trainers, interest groups, and others who have views, advice or suggestions on how policy in this area can be enhanced so as to: 1. Promote and maintain mobility and independence of drivers. 2. Support and assist medical professionals in assessing fitness to drive. 3. Maximise road safety for all road users. 4. Promote the appropriate use by drivers of specialist training and technology. 5. Ensure that driver training and testing services are accessible and appropriate. The ability to drive safely can be seriously impaired by certain medical conditions and disabilities. Drivers, and prospective drivers, are accordingly subject to medical review which strives to strike a balance between ability, mobility, risk and safety. In some cases this can mean restricting or placing certain restrictions on the driving of individuals or in certain cases to disallow further driving. The medical assessment of drivers and the advice given by doctors to their patients in this regard can make a significant contribution to road safety. The current procedures regarding the timing of medical and format of medical assessment have been in place for some years, so it is considered opportune at this stage to review them in the light of current road safety circumstances. The review relates solely to procedures and not to the actual medical standards which drivers have to meet. The consultative process will last until 5pm on Monday 20 October 2008. (Author/publisher)
Abstract