The purpose of the HGV medical test is to confirm that a driver is physically and mentally fit to operate a Heavy Goods Vehicle. All drivers prioritize road safety, but given an HGV’s size and weight, a driver must be able to demonstrate that they are qualified to operate it in order to protect not only their own safety but also the safety of other road users.
The HGV medical test was created because the medical requirements for drivers of Group 2 vehicles (trucks, buses, and minibusses) are higher than those for drivers of Group 1 vehicles (cars and motorcycles).
A driver must pass an HGV medical examination before receiving their first HGV driver’s license, so let’s have a look at that.
HGV Medical Tests Requirements:
You must be familiar with the components of an HGV medical exam in order to obtain your HGV driving license.
The HGV medical assessment consists of three basic components:
Neurological conditions: Any driver who has a neurological disease faces substantial consequences. Any potential disorders, such as epilepsy, stroke, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, seizures, memory problems, blackouts, or chronic illnesses like Multiple Sclerosis, will be discussed with your doctor.
Mental well-being: HGV operators must maintain a positive mental state. A driver must frequently spend a lot of time alone while working. Doctors can anticipate discussing a wide range of mental health issues, such as dementia, anxiety, and depression.
Heart issues: Heart conditions that have previously been identified and are being treated with medication and a healthy lifestyle shouldn’t interfere with an HGV physical. However, if any previously unknown conditions surfaced, worries might be raised. Some circumstances could have an impact on the test’s results. For instance, you are not permitted to drive for three months after undergoing heart bypass surgery or for a full year after suffering a stroke or another undiagnosed period of unconsciousness.
Diabetes: Having diabetes won’t prevent you from operating a heavy-duty vehicle. It is a widespread condition that affects about 10% of people. You would need to be able to demonstrate that your diabetes is under control if you have it.
Sleep disorders: For HGV drivers, sleep deprivation is a major contributing factor in fatal accidents. Your doctor will examine you for any indications of sleep issues during your HGV physical. You must be completely honest when it comes to sleep issues since, while a properly controlled sleep condition won’t prevent you from driving an HGV, a poorly managed sleep disorder may ultimately result in fatalities.
Alcohol and drug use are prohibited when operating a heavy goods vehicle (HGV). The doctor will look for any indications of ongoing drug or alcohol usage during your HGV physical.
Conclusion
According to the gov.uk website, license applicants and holders have a legal obligation to adhere to all conditions of a given license, including any periodic medical reviews suggested by the DVLA.
Read More: 7 Reasons to Choose Orange County Medical Group for Your Good Health
You should make a note of the date that your medicals are due and keep track of it so that you know when the DVLA will send you a reminder letter. If the letter doesn’t arrive when you expect it to, you should follow up with them. With D4medicals you can easily keep the track of your documents and ensure that your license is all ready!
