Ill drivers still hitting the road

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People are risking making claims on their car insurance by driving while ill, a survey has revealed.

The AA/Populus survey found 19% of the 20,000 people questioned knew someone who had got behind the wheel when too ill to drive.

However, just 2% of motorists admitted driving while ill. The contrast between the figures led AA president Edmund King to warn how dangerous it was for somebody too ill to drive to start their car.

The results came after a Government report showed that doctors and other healthcare professionals had problems dealing with patients who should not be driving.

Mr King said: "The survey results suggest that up to six million drivers may drive when they know they shouldn't for medical reasons. Drivers need to be aware of the risks that they are taking and the consequences of getting caught.

"Employers need to be more vigilant in checking driving licences and carrying out Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency checks on staff who may have had licences revoked for medical reasons or they might be liable."

Copyright © Press Association 2010

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