Changes to Jersey’s medical requirements and driving license standards have come into force.
The government said the new requirements include new medical and vision standards for minibus and bus drivers applying for a license, making the rules “similar to those in the UK and EU”.
Infrastructure Minister Cllr Andy Jehan said it was “important” that the regulations were updated, particularly for Islanders who drive internationally.
He said: “We welcome this change in terms of ensuring that people on our roads are fit to drive.”
Some of the major changes are:
Anyone applying for an occupational license to drive heavy goods or large vehicles, known as a “Group 2” license, must undergo a medical examination.
A full list of changes can be found on the government website.
Gordon Forrest, Jersey’s head of driving and vehicle standards, said: “This is not a story where every islander suddenly has to go out and see a doctor on October 5th.
“This is all about public driving and the ability to drive in a safe manner.”
Juliet Hart, who has type 1 diabetes, will need a medical certificate to renew her driving license (BBC)
Juliet Hart has type 1 diabetes and is required to obtain a medical certificate every 10 years when renewing her driver’s license.
The Primary Care Authority, which represents GPs in Jersey, has admitted that booking an appointment to obtain a driving certificate is expensive.
He said the cost of the appointment is at the discretion of each clinic.
“There’s always a cost, and it’s usually financial, but I think over a 10-year period it’s not outrageous, it’s pretty reasonable,” Hart said.
“For safety”
Hart and other people with type 1 diabetes must also meet certain standards for controlling their blood sugar levels before driving.
Hart said he needs to check his blood sugar levels before getting behind the wheel, which he always does anyway.
The “key difference” for her is that under the new rules, if her blood sugar levels drop below a safe level, she will have to wait 45 minutes for them to return to normal before driving, she said. spoke.
She said: “It may seem a bit of a hassle, but the problem is that hypoglycemia has a huge effect on the brain and reactions, so it’s for safety.”
“It’s really good that this is all being highlighted and people are becoming aware of it.”
No changes needed
More than 200 people have signed a petition calling for the changes to be reversed.
It was started by Alan Lloyd, a professional van and truck driver who described himself as ‘seeing out of one eye’.
Under the new rules, people with sight in one eye will not be able to obtain a Group 2 license.
Mr Lloyd said: “These changes will have a significant negative impact on my livelihood and the lives of my family now and in the future.”
He said the changes were “not necessary” and would “impact on the lives of many professional drivers”.
Mr Jehan said anyone who lost their job due to the changes would be eligible for government support.
He said: “My main concern is everyone’s road safety, although obviously there are concerns, especially for those whose jobs are affected.”
“Some people will benefit, and unfortunately others will be affected.”
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