1 Apr 2026 Susan Jane WHITTLES · Prevention of Future Deaths report East Riding and Hull
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Concerns raised 3
Lack of examiner provision to withdraw unsupervised driving after failure to meet required standards View source Ability of non-designated-country nationals who fail GB driving tests to revert to driving on a foreign or international licence View source Lack of equivalent supervision and inexperience-warning restrictions for non-designated-country nationals who fail a GB driving test View source
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 1
Department for Transport
Examine the domestic and international legal framework to identify measures addressing continued unsupervised driving after a failed practical test.
View source
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AI-generated summary
Susan Jane WHITTLES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Susan Jane WHITTLES died at the scene of a road traffic collision on 24 November 2023 after another vehicle failed to give way and collided with her vehicle. The substantive concerns relate to non-designated-country nationals being able to continue driving in Great Britain on a foreign or international licence after failing GB driving tests, without appropriate supervision, potentially creating a risk of serious injury or harm to other road users.
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× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Lack of examiner provision to withdraw unsupervised driving after failure to meet required standards
Wider context from the report “(4) There appears no provision for an examiner to withdraw the ability to drive without appropriate supervision despite a person’s failure to meet the required standards .
” Source location Susan Jane WHITTLES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Ability of non-designated-country nationals who fail GB driving tests to revert to driving on a foreign or international licence
Wider context from the report “(3) If a national of a non-designated country fails any number of driving tests within the 12 month period they are still able to revert and rely on their 12 month limit to drive on their foreign/international licence in the UK , despite not meeting the safety standards set by the DVSA .
” Source location Susan Jane WHITTLES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Lack of equivalent supervision and inexperience-warning restrictions for non-designated-country nationals who fail a GB driving test
Wider context from the report “(2) Nationals of non-designated countries who fail a GB driving test are not treated in the same way as a GB resident who fails a GB driving test . A GB resident is not allowed to drive without appropriate supervision and when they are driving they must display L plates to act as a warning to other vehicles of their inexperience .
” Source location Susan Jane WHITTLES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Examine the domestic and international legal framework to identify measures addressing continued unsupervised driving after a failed practical test.
Verbatim wording from the response “However, my department and I are firmly of the view that there is no compelling policy rationale to justify allowing unsafe drivers to use our roads, and are committed to looking into this further. This requires detailed examination of the relevant domestic and international legal framework, and so may take some time, but I would like to assure you we are actively looking into what can be done, consistent with the UK's international obligations.” Source location Response from Department for Transport & Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Open published response
24 Mar 2026 James Scott COATES · Prevention of Future Deaths report Cumbria
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Concerns raised 2
Insufficiently robust arrangements for ensuring that drivers with serious conditions have their licences properly reviewed View source Failure of drivers to self-report potentially significant conditions to the DVLA View source
Linked response
MP, Minister for Local Transport
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 5
MP, Minister for Local Transport
Review and improve self-declaration forms and associated notification processes.
View source
MP, Minister for Local Transport
Raise public awareness of the legal duty to notify the DVLA about medical conditions and the consequences of non-notification.
View source
MP, Minister for Local Transport
Reinforce existing General Medical Council guidance on notifying the DVLA when patients continue driving despite advice to notify.
View source
MP, Minister for Local Transport
Deliver educational sessions for healthcare professionals encouraging direct DVLA notifications when patients cannot or will not notify themselves.
View source
MP, Minister for Local Transport
Continue engagement with regulatory bodies, clinical networks and healthcare professionals to identify barriers to DVLA notifications.
View source See 2 more actions
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AI-generated summary
James Scott COATES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
James Scott Coates died after a head-on collision while driving around a bend at approximately 90 mph on an unlit rural road, where 75% of the Cats Eye reflectors were not functioning. He sustained unsurvivable injuries and was declared dead at the roadside. The principal concern was that drivers with potentially significant conditions, including epilepsy and cannabis use, may not notify the DVLA, while legislation places the reporting responsibility on licence holders rather than doctors, which was considered insufficiently robust to ensure proper licence review.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Insufficiently robust arrangements for ensuring that drivers with serious conditions have their licences properly reviewed
Wider context from the report “I previously sent you a Prevention of Future Deaths Report (in relation to the deaths of Neil Errington and Gareth and Patricia Evans) highlighting my concern that the expectation that drivers would self-report their conditions (which arises as a matter of legislation) was not being followed.
The evidence in this inquest provides further cause for concern. Once again, the evidence is that a person with potentially significant conditions never notified the DVLA, and that his doctors did not draw it to the DVLA's attention because legislation places the onus on licence holders and not their doctors . I remain of the view that this is insufficiently robust to ensure that drivers with serious conditions are not having their licences properly reviewed .
” Source location James Scott COATES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of drivers to self-report potentially significant conditions to the DVLA
Wider context from the report “I previously sent you a Prevention of Future Deaths Report (in relation to the deaths of Neil Errington and Gareth and Patricia Evans) highlighting my concern that the expectation that drivers would self-report their conditions (which arises as a matter of legislation) was not being followed .
The evidence in this inquest provides further cause for concern. Once again, the evidence is that a person with potentially significant conditions never notified the DVLA , and that his doctors did not draw it to the DVLA's attention because legislation places the onus on licence holders and not their doctors. I remain of the view that this is insufficiently robust to ensure that drivers with serious conditions are not having their licences properly reviewed.
” Source location James Scott COATES · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Review and improve self-declaration forms and associated notification processes.
Verbatim wording from the response “The actions being taken by my Department and the DVLA to address the issues raised in this Prevention of Future Deaths Report include reviewing the self-declaration forms for notifying the DVLA of a medical condition, raising public awareness of the legal duty to notify medical conditions to the DVLA and the consequences of not doing so and reinforcing the existing General Medical Council guidance which advises doctors when to notify the DVLA where a patient continues to drive despite being advised to notify the DVLA.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Raise public awareness of the legal duty to notify the DVLA about medical conditions and the consequences of non-notification.
Verbatim wording from the response “The actions being taken by my Department and the DVLA to address the issues raised in this Prevention of Future Deaths Report include reviewing the self-declaration forms for notifying the DVLA of a medical condition, raising public awareness of the legal duty to notify medical conditions to the DVLA and the consequences of not doing so and reinforcing the existing General Medical Council guidance which advises doctors when to notify the DVLA where a patient continues to drive despite being advised to notify the DVLA.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Reinforce existing General Medical Council guidance on notifying the DVLA when patients continue driving despite advice to notify.
Verbatim wording from the response “The actions being taken by my Department and the DVLA to address the issues raised in this Prevention of Future Deaths Report include reviewing the self-declaration forms for notifying the DVLA of a medical condition, raising public awareness of the legal duty to notify medical conditions to the DVLA and the consequences of not doing so and reinforcing the existing General Medical Council guidance which advises doctors when to notify the DVLA where a patient continues to drive despite being advised to notify the DVLA.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Deliver educational sessions for healthcare professionals encouraging direct DVLA notifications when patients cannot or will not notify themselves.
Verbatim wording from the response “I can confirm that the DVLA is engaging with healthcare professionals and has delivered a series of educational sessions to encourage clinicians to notify the DVLA directly where a patient is unable or unwilling to do so themselves. Further engagement with regulatory bodies, clinical networks and healthcare professionals will continue to better understand any concerns or issues that may be preventing notifications being made to the DVLA by doctors and driving licence holders.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Continue engagement with regulatory bodies, clinical networks and healthcare professionals to identify barriers to DVLA notifications.
Verbatim wording from the response “I can confirm that the DVLA is engaging with healthcare professionals and has delivered a series of educational sessions to encourage clinicians to notify the DVLA directly where a patient is unable or unwilling to do so themselves. Further engagement with regulatory bodies, clinical networks and healthcare professionals will continue to better understand any concerns or issues that may be preventing notifications being made to the DVLA by doctors and driving licence holders.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
Concerns raised 1
Lack of adult supervision restrictions for 17-year-old drivers after passing a driving test View source
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AI-generated summary
Paul Walker GREEN · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Paul Walker Green, aged 16, died on 27 November 2024 after a car carrying him as a rear passenger collided with a tree and rolled onto its roof; he suffered fatal head injuries. Concerns included the driver’s recent qualification and inexperience, the passengers’ lack of adult supervision, and the ability of newly qualified 17-year-olds to drive without adult supervision, including on motorways.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Lack of adult supervision restrictions for 17-year-old drivers after passing a driving test
Wider context from the report “The driver of the vehicle which crashed was 17 years of age. The three passengers in the car including Paul Green who died were also under 18. There were no adults in the car. I heard evidence from Forensic Collision Investigator ████████ that the collision was likely a result of understeering while negotiating a bend which was a result of the driver's inexperience. She had only passed her test a few weeks prior to the collision. I also heard evidence that the presence of other teenagers in the car (none of whom it appeared had driving experience) is a factor in a number of collisions. I am concerned that when 17 year olds pass a driving test, they can drive on any road in the UK including motorways without any adult supervision. I believe this current state of affairs is likely to lead to further fatal collisions if it remains unaddressed.
” Source location Paul Walker GREEN · Prevention of Future Deaths report
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Source evidence
How this respondent position was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Further restrictions on newly qualified drivers, such as passenger limits, are not being considered because the proposed approach strikes an appropriate balance.
Verbatim wording from the response “Whilst we are not considering further restrictions on newly qualified drivers, such as carrying passengers, we are consulting on a Minimum Learning Period before learner drivers can take their practical driving test. This would allow learners more time to gain essential experience, for example in different weather conditions, before driving independently and reduce the risk to themselves and other drivers. We believe this strikes an appropriate balance between addressing specific risks pertaining to younger drivers, whilst allowing them to exercise new freedoms that passing your driving test can bring.” Source location Response from Minister of Local Transport
Open published response
Concerns raised 4
Failure to assess new drivers’ understanding of passenger effects on braking, stability and handling View source Failure of licensing arrangements to address combined inexperience, peer presence and full vehicle loading View source Failure of the standard driving test to require experience on challenging rural roads View source
Failure of licensing arrangements to provide structured progression aligned to early post-test risk View source See 1 more concern
This report raised 15 other concerns. They are not shown here because they do not form part of this recurring concern.
Linked responses
Brake, the road-safety charity Department for Transport Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency The ABI
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 5
Brake, the road-safety charity
Release previously undertaken research on stronger licensing measures for young and newly qualified drivers.
View source
The ABI
Advocate to government for young and novice driver safety measures, including progressive licensing, through the Road Safety Strategy.
View source
Department for Transport and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Implement updates to the car practical driving test, including additional higher-speed-road driving where locations allow.
View source
Department for Transport and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Review and update driving-test-centre routes to include relevant high-speed, high-risk rural roads where locations allow.
View source
Department for Transport and Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Consult on a Minimum Learning Period and related pre-test measures, including a possible mandatory modular learner syllabus.
View source See 2 more actions
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AI-generated summary
Harry Joseph Purcell and Matilda (Tilly) Grace Seccombe · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Harry Joseph Purcell and Matilda (Tilly) Grace Seccombe sustained fatal injuries in a single-vehicle collision on 21 April 2023, when a recently qualified 17-year-old driver travelled at excessive speed on a rural road and lost control. The report raised concerns about the combined risks of driver inexperience, peer passengers, vehicle loading and rural-road conditions, as well as issues concerning driver licensing, insurance oversight, unsafe-driving content shared on Snapchat and the lack of coordinated responses to unsafe behaviour.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure to assess new drivers’ understanding of passenger effects on braking, stability and handling
Wider context from the report “2. New drivers are not required to demonstrate an understanding of how passengers affect braking, stability and handling . The standard driving test does not require experience on rural roads with tight bends, undulations or variable grip. Given that collision risk is highest in the early post-test period, there is a concern as to whether current licensing arrangements adequately reflect the conditions young drivers commonly face or include a structured progression stage aligned to this risk.
” Source location Harry Joseph Purcell and Matilda (Tilly) Grace Seccombe · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of licensing arrangements to address combined inexperience, peer presence and full vehicle loading
Wider context from the report “1. The inquest noted that newly qualified drivers may carry multiple peer-age passengers immediately after passing their test. This case suggests that inexperience, peer presence and full vehicle loading can combine to elevate risk , and it is unclear how current licensing arrangements address these combined factors .
” Source location Harry Joseph Purcell and Matilda (Tilly) Grace Seccombe · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of the standard driving test to require experience on challenging rural roads
Wider context from the report “2. New drivers are not required to demonstrate an understanding of how passengers affect braking, stability and handling. The standard driving test does not require experience on rural roads with tight bends, undulations or variable grip . Given that collision risk is highest in the early post-test period, there is a concern as to whether current licensing arrangements adequately reflect the conditions young drivers commonly face or include a structured progression stage aligned to this risk.
” Source location Harry Joseph Purcell and Matilda (Tilly) Grace Seccombe · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of licensing arrangements to provide structured progression aligned to early post-test risk
Wider context from the report “2. New drivers are not required to demonstrate an understanding of how passengers affect braking, stability and handling. The standard driving test does not require experience on rural roads with tight bends, undulations or variable grip. Given that collision risk is highest in the early post-test period, there is a concern as to whether current licensing arrangements adequately reflect the conditions young drivers commonly face or include a structured progression stage aligned to this risk .
” Source location Harry Joseph Purcell and Matilda (Tilly) Grace Seccombe · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Release previously undertaken research on stronger licensing measures for young and newly qualified drivers.
Verbatim wording from the response “We have long campaigned for stronger licensing measures to protect young and newly qualified drivers, and this remains one of our organisational priorities. We partner with the Protect Young Drivers campaign, and we will shortly be releasing research undertaken last year on this issue. I will ensure a copy is shared with you once published.” Source location Response from Brake
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Advocate to government for young and novice driver safety measures, including progressive licensing, through the Road Safety Strategy.
Verbatim wording from the response “The primary purpose of motor insurance is to provide financial protection to vehicle owners for damage caused to their own vehicle, or damage or injury they cause to others. A minimum of third-party motor insurance is a legal requirement to drive on UK roads. The ABI is actively engaging with its insurer members through our Motor Insurance Roadmap to support young drivers, and we continue to advocate for progressive policy change at the government level. We strongly welcome the Government’s recent Road Safety Strategy and endorse several key measures designed to protect young drivers, as well as the wider public. The motor insurance industry also invests in and advocates for improved road safety to prevent accidents from occurring. This includes:” Source location Response from The ABI Together Driving Change
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Implement updates to the car practical driving test, including additional higher-speed-road driving where locations allow.
Verbatim wording from the response “Following a successful five-month trial, the DVSA introduced updates to the car practical driving test from Monday 24 November 2025. As a result of these changes, learner drivers will spend more time on higher-speed roads during their driving test, where location allows. These changes aim to enhance road safety, address collision rates in rural areas and align the test more closely with real-world driving conditions.” Source location Response from Department for Transport and DVSA
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Review and update driving-test-centre routes to include relevant high-speed, high-risk rural roads where locations allow.
Verbatim wording from the response “Reviewing and refreshing all current routes will take time. The expectation is that by 31 March 2026, each Driving Test Centre will have reviewed and updated all routes to be more relevant and to include high speed, high risk rural roads where location allows.” Source location Response from Department for Transport and DVSA
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Consult on a Minimum Learning Period and related pre-test measures, including a possible mandatory modular learner syllabus.
Verbatim wording from the response “Whilst we are not considering further restrictions on newly qualified drivers such as carrying passengers or driving at night, we are consulting on a Minimum Learning Period in England, Scotland, and Wales before learner drivers can take their practical driving test.” Source location Response from Department for Transport and DVSA
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent position was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation The driving test cannot replicate every scenario a driver may encounter after qualification.
Verbatim wording from the response “Turning to the concerns raised regarding the scope of the current driving test: the object of the driving test is to ensure that the candidate is well grounded in the basic principles of safe driving and is sufficiently practised in them to be able to show, at the time of the test, that they are a competent and considerate driver and are not a source of danger to themselves or to other road users. If a candidate reaches the required standard they will pass their test. However, it is not intended to, and could not, replicate every scenario a driver may encounter after qualification.” Source location Response from Department for Transport and DVSA
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent position was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Because vehicle loading and passenger dynamics vary, the test relies on core competencies to support safe adaptation across different conditions.
Verbatim wording from the response “Vehicle loading and passenger dynamics are important aspects of safe driving, but these situations vary significantly depending on vehicle type and usage. For this reason, the test focuses on core competencies such as hazard perception, vehicle control, and decision-making, which are fundamental to adapting safely to different conditions. Learner drivers have the option to carry passengers during their learning journeys.” Source location Response from Department for Transport and DVSA
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent position was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Further restrictions on newly qualified drivers, including passenger or nighttime limits, are not currently being considered.
Verbatim wording from the response “Whilst we are not considering further restrictions on newly qualified drivers such as carrying passengers or driving at night, we are consulting on a Minimum Learning Period in England, Scotland, and Wales before learner drivers can take their practical driving test.” Source location Response from Department for Transport and DVSA
Open published response
16 Oct 2025 Martin Gareth EVANS and 2 others · Prevention of Future Deaths report Cumbria
View report summary
Concerns raised 1
Reliance on drivers to self-refer medical impairments to the DVLA View source
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 5
Department for Transport
Carry out a comprehensive review of the self-declaration forms.
View source
Department for Transport
Consider ways to raise awareness of notifying the DVLA and the consequences of failing to do so.
View source
Department for Transport
Continue engaging healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies to reinforce notification when patients cannot or will not notify the DVLA.
View source
Department for Transport
Review existing evidence alongside findings from recent inquests.
View source
Department for Transport
Consider the process for self-declaration as part of the evidence review.
View source See 2 more actions
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AI-generated summary
Martin Gareth EVANS and 2 others · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Martin Gareth Evans and Patricia Mary Evans died after another driver experienced syncope and collided with their vehicle on 13 February 2023. Neil Errington died after another driver had a seizure and collided with his vehicle; he died in hospital on 12 May 2022. The substantive concern was that relying on drivers with medical impairments to self-report to the DVLA may allow some to continue driving despite advice not to do so, risking future deaths.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Reliance on drivers to self-refer medical impairments to the DVLA
Wider context from the report “(1) The DVLA witnesses confirmed to me that the scheme created by section 94 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 requires that 'licence holders' notify the DVLA if they suffer from a relevant or prospective disability. In turn the DVLA place the emphasis on the expectation that licence holders will themselves honestly inform the DVLA of their condition. Although medical professionals can inform the DVLA of a patient's unfitness to drive, the DVLA proceed on the basis that notifications will not usually come via this route.
In each of these three inquests the drivers responsible for the collisions had repeatedly lied to the DVLA about their fitness to drive. I was told that this was 'disappointing' but not wholly surprising.
I am aware that HM Senior Coroner for Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen addressed a PFD report to you (ref: 2025-0196) on April 24th 2025 in which a death had been caused by a driver who, by reason of their condition, lacked the necessary insight to self-refer to the DVLA.
Each of these cases illustrate the problem with expecting that those who have medical impairments should self-refer to the DVLA. There will be cases where, despite repeated advice not to drive, a person is unable or unwilling to inform the DVLA of their situation. My concern is that this risks future deaths. I consider that whilst self-referral remains the default position, more drivers will be able to continue driving whilst endangering lawful road users.
” Source location Martin Gareth EVANS and 2 others · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Carry out a comprehensive review of the self-declaration forms.
Verbatim wording from the response “Although the self-declaration process for notifying medical conditions to the DVLA is intended to empower drivers to take personal responsibility for their fitness to drive, I recognise that some drivers wilfully ignore medical advice and will not notify the DVLA and continue driving. This can have potentially devastating consequences. Officials will carry out a comprehensive review of the self-declaration forms and consider ways to further raise awareness of the importance of notifying conditions to the DVLA and the potential far reaching consequences of failing to do so. Officials will also continue to engage with healthcare professionals and their regulatory bodies to reinforce the importance of notifying the DVLA if their patient lacks the capacity or willingness to inform the DVLA of their condition themselves.” Source location Response from Department of Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Consider ways to raise awareness of notifying the DVLA and the consequences of failing to do so.
Verbatim wording from the response “Although the self-declaration process for notifying medical conditions to the DVLA is intended to empower drivers to take personal responsibility for their fitness to drive, I recognise that some drivers wilfully ignore medical advice and will not notify the DVLA and continue driving. This can have potentially devastating consequences. Officials will carry out a comprehensive review of the self-declaration forms and consider ways to further raise awareness of the importance of notifying conditions to the DVLA and the potential far reaching consequences of failing to do so. Officials will also continue to engage with healthcare professionals and their regulatory bodies to reinforce the importance of notifying the DVLA if their patient lacks the capacity or willingness to inform the DVLA of their condition themselves.” Source location Response from Department of Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Continue engaging healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies to reinforce notification when patients cannot or will not notify the DVLA.
Verbatim wording from the response “Although the self-declaration process for notifying medical conditions to the DVLA is intended to empower drivers to take personal responsibility for their fitness to drive, I recognise that some drivers wilfully ignore medical advice and will not notify the DVLA and continue driving. This can have potentially devastating consequences. Officials will carry out a comprehensive review of the self-declaration forms and consider ways to further raise awareness of the importance of notifying conditions to the DVLA and the potential far reaching consequences of failing to do so. Officials will also continue to engage with healthcare professionals and their regulatory bodies to reinforce the importance of notifying the DVLA if their patient lacks the capacity or willingness to inform the DVLA of their condition themselves.” Source location Response from Department of Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Review existing evidence alongside findings from recent inquests.
Verbatim wording from the response “My department also recognises that the volume and complexity of driving licence applications for those with one or more medical conditions is increasing, reflecting both an ageing population and a strong desire among drivers to maintain the independence that driving provides. We are reviewing the evidence already gathered alongside the findings from recent inquests. As part of this work consideration will be given to the process of self-declaration.” Source location Response from Department of Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Consider the process for self-declaration as part of the evidence review.
Verbatim wording from the response “My department also recognises that the volume and complexity of driving licence applications for those with one or more medical conditions is increasing, reflecting both an ageing population and a strong desire among drivers to maintain the independence that driving provides. We are reviewing the evidence already gathered alongside the findings from recent inquests. As part of this work consideration will be given to the process of self-declaration.” Source location Response from Department of Transport
Open published response
2 May 2025 Rosemary MacAndrew · Prevention of Future Deaths report Nottinghamshire
View report summary
Concerns raised 1
Reliance of vehicle licensing on drivers’ self-reporting of medical conditions View source
This report raised 1 other concern. They are not shown here because they do not form part of this recurring concern.
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 1
Department for Transport
Continue engaging healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies to identify circumstances where appropriate DVLA notifications could be encouraged or supported.
View source
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AI-generated summary
Rosemary MacAndrew · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Rosemary MacAndrew, aged 64, died on 5 July 2024 after being struck by a reversing motor car while she was a pedestrian in a car park. The report raises concern that the current vehicle-licensing system relies largely on older drivers recognising and self-reporting medical conditions that may compromise their driving ability, creating a risk of future deaths.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Reliance of vehicle licensing on drivers’ self-reporting of medical conditions
Wider context from the report “The UK population is of increasing age and the number of older drivers is increasing rapidly. The current system for vehicle licensing relies largely upon the self-awareness of a driver and their willingness and/or ability to self-report medical conditions to the DVLA. I am concerned that older drivers with vulnerabilities, including age, decreasing mobility and cognitive decline pose a risk of future deaths through compromised driving ability thereby creating a risk of deaths in the future.
” Source location Rosemary MacAndrew · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Continue engaging healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies to identify circumstances where appropriate DVLA notifications could be encouraged or supported.
Verbatim wording from the response “To ensure that the DVLA is notified about drivers who have conditions that may impair their insight into their health and driving abilities, my Department will continue to engage with healthcare professionals and their regulatory bodies to understand if there may be circumstances where doctors and health care professionals could be encouraged or supported in notifying the DVLA when appropriate.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
Concerns raised 2
Lack of periodic visual checks for licensed drivers View source Failure of driver self-reporting to verify visual fitness View source
This report raised 6 other concerns. They are not shown here because they do not form part of this recurring concern.
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 1
Department for Transport
Consider inquest evidence and potential legal changes to driver licensing for people with medical conditions, including self-declaration.
View source
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AI-generated summary
Mary Frances Cunningham and 3 others · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Mary Frances Cunningham, Grace Foulds, Anne Elizabeth Ferguson and Peter Anthony Westwell died in separate road traffic collisions involving drivers whose eyesight was below the legal standard for driving. The report raises concerns about the UK licensing system, including reliance on self-reporting, the lack of periodic visual checks, and the limitations of the number-plate test. It states that the DVLA continued to license the drivers involved despite their impaired vision.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Lack of periodic visual checks for licensed drivers
Wider context from the report “A driver's visual acuity is only checked at the time of the driving test by reading a number plate at 20 m. A driver may then hold a licence until 70 years of age during which time there is no check that they meet the visual legal standards to drive a car . During this time a driver is required to self-monitor and self-refer visual conditions to the DVLA . During this time a variety of ocular diseases may develop, some of which are silent and of which the driver of which the driver may not be aware that that they are suffering from a disease that would compromise the driver's ability to comply with the legal standards to drive a car.
” Source location Mary Frances Cunningham and 3 others · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of driver self-reporting to verify visual fitness
Wider context from the report “Self-reporting of visual conditions permits drivers to lie about their current driving status to those performing an ophthalmic assessment and avoid warnings not to drive. Drivers may also admit they drive but then ignore instructions not to drive and fail to notify the DVLA. In such circumstances, when the DVLA becomes aware, the DVLA does not refer such cases to the police for prosecution and consequently drivers can lie without sanction. All three drivers in this case either lied concerning the driving status wilfully misinterpreted questions to avoid driving advice not to drive, adopted fictions of their visual performance to allow them to drive, prioritised their own enjoyment and independence over the lives of other road users and repeatedly obtained licences from the DVLA due to a defective self-reporting system that does not confirm the driver meets the visual legal standards for driving and is open to abuse .
” Source location Mary Frances Cunningham and 3 others · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Consider inquest evidence and potential legal changes to driver licensing for people with medical conditions, including self-declaration.
Verbatim wording from the response “The DVLA will also consider the evidence presented during the inquest hearing, to inform potential changes to the law that governs driver licensing for those with medical conditions. Work in this area is ongoing and includes consideration of the process of self-declaration and the challenges posed by an ageing population where certain conditions, including vision conditions, may become more prevalent. Consideration is also being given to policy options as part of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy, which is being developed and the details of which will be provided in due course.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
Concerns raised 2
Failure of drivers with dementia to self-report medical conditions to the DVLA View source Failure to report multiple medical conditions requiring DVLA monitoring View source
This report raised 1 other concern. They are not shown here because they do not form part of this recurring concern.
Stated actions An action is something a respondent says it has done, is doing, or plans to do in response to the concern raised. 3
Department for Transport
Continue engaging healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies to identify and address obstacles to reporting conditions when patients lack insight or capacity.
View source
Department for Transport
Consider research and evidence, including any additional research needed, to inform potential future changes to the driver licensing system.
View source
Department for Transport
Continue working with healthcare professionals, driving organisations and regulatory bodies to identify and assess people who pose road-safety risks because of unrecognised medical conditions.
View source
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AI-generated summary
Sheila Margaret Edwards · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Sheila Margaret Edwards was a front-seat passenger in a car whose driver became unresponsive, leading to a head-on collision on 8 January 2023. The report identified concerns that drivers with dementia and other conditions may not recognise or report them to the DVLA, creating risks to other road users, and that such conditions may be under-recorded in collision data.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of drivers with dementia to self-report medical conditions to the DVLA
Wider context from the report “1. Dementia affects approximately half a million sufferers in the United Kingdom of which the DVLA has only been notified of approximately 30,000 drivers. It would appear that there is significant underreporting of drivers who may suffer from dementia
2. The current system for vehicle licensing relies upon the self-awareness of a driver and their ability to self-report medical conditions to the DVLA . A system that relies upon the self-awareness of a person applying for a driving licence to self-report a medical condition of dementia where the condition itself is characterised by a lack of self-awareness is inherently unsafe and exposes other road users to the risk of death or serious injury
” Source location Sheila Margaret Edwards · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report × Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure to report multiple medical conditions requiring DVLA monitoring
Wider context from the report “5. In this case, the driver suffered from focal epilepsy, which was the primary cause of the collision resulting Sheila Edwards' death. However, the memory deficit caused by dementia resulted in a lack of awareness of an underlying neurological condition. In such cases there is a substantial risk that neither of the conditions will be reported to the DVLA for monitoring . The result is that a driver with two conditions that should be monitored by the DVLA who is both unaware of their illnesses and the need to report themselves to the DVLA . This creates a substantial risk to other road users.
” Source location Sheila Margaret Edwards · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Continue engaging healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies to identify and address obstacles to reporting conditions when patients lack insight or capacity.
Verbatim wording from the response “Although the process for establishing that a driver meets the medical standards for driving is based on self-declaration, I recognise that this may be difficult for those drivers with conditions that may impair their insight into their health status. My department will continue to engage with healthcare professionals and their regulatory bodies to identify and address any obstacles that may hinder the reporting process, particularly where their patient lacks the insight or capacity to inform the DVLA of their condition themselves.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Consider research and evidence, including any additional research needed, to inform potential future changes to the driver licensing system.
Verbatim wording from the response “Officials are considering the research and evidence provided and what additional research may be needed to inform potential future changes. These considerations include the system of self-declaration and the potential for the introduction of age-based testing. Consideration is also being given to policy options as part of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy, which is being developed and the details of which will be provided in due course.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
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Source evidence
How this respondent action was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Continue working with healthcare professionals, driving organisations and regulatory bodies to identify and assess people who pose road-safety risks because of unrecognised medical conditions.
Verbatim wording from the response “My Department will continue to work with healthcare professionals, driving organisations and regulatory bodies to enhance the safety of our roads and ensure that those who pose a risk to road safety due to lack of awareness of their medical condition are appropriately identified and assessed.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
Concerns raised 1
Inexperienced drivers carrying young passengers during the first six months after passing their driving test View source
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AI-generated summary
William Owen RADFORD · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
William Owen RADFORD died on 13 June 2024 from fatal injuries sustained after losing control of his vehicle and being struck by an oncoming vehicle while driving on the A281 Brighton Road. He had only recently passed his driving test and was carrying a young passenger. The inquest heard that distraction from another young person could increase the risk of an accident for an inexperienced driver, amid public concern about young-passenger restrictions for newly qualified drivers.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Inexperienced drivers carrying young passengers during the first six months after passing their driving test
Wider context from the report “This Inquest concerned the death of a young man (aged 17) who had only just passed his driving test a few weeks before his death. At the time of his death he was driving his car accompanied by a young friend, also aged 17. I heard evidence that where an inexperienced driver has a distraction of another young person in the car this can increase their risk of having an accident. There is currently ongoing public concern that inexperienced drivers are able to carry young passengers within the first six months of having passed their test.
” Source location William Owen RADFORD · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
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Source evidence
How this respondent position was interpreted
PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the published response wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Graduated Driving Licences are not being considered, although young driver safety is being addressed through existing restrictions and the THINK! campaign.
Verbatim wording from the response “In Britain, there is a form of restricting novice drivers through the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995. On acquiring their first full licence, a new driver is on ‘probation’ for two years. During this time, they are subject to a limit of six penalty points received for any driving offences (including any received when in the learning stage). If six or more points are received, then a driver loses their full licence and must apply again for a provisional licence, and then re-take both their theory and practical test.” Source location Response from Department for Transport
Open published response
Concerns raised 1
Failure of the online licence checker to reflect a driver’s authorised driving status View source
This report raised 5 other concerns. They are not shown here because they do not form part of this recurring concern.
No linked response statements No respondent-stated action or position is linked to these concerns in the published data.
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AI-generated summary
Kenton Clete BEASLEY · Prevention of Future Deaths report
This summary was generated using AI from the published report. Please read the original report for the complete account.
Report summary
Kenton Clete Beasley was found hanging at an address in Ashurst, Steyning on 19 May 2024 and was confirmed deceased at the scene; third-party involvement was ruled out. The report described delays and communication failures in the renewal of his HGV licence, which prevented him from securing professional employment and contributed to distress and deterioration in his mental health.
Read the report on judiciary.uk
× Source evidence
How this individual concern was interpreted PFD Monitor created a concise, searchable interpretation from the report wording shown below.
PFD Monitor interpretation Failure of the online licence checker to reflect a driver’s authorised driving status
Wider context from the report “In the period Sep 23-Mar 24, whilst verbally informed that he was able to drive under s.88 RTA 1988, the online checker was showing his licence to have expired , hence over 20 potential employers refused to hire him, notwithstanding his attempts to explain s.88.
” Source location Kenton Clete BEASLEY · Prevention of Future Deaths report
Open source report
Actions and positions describe what organisations say in published responses. Implementation is not independently verified.