Driver Unaware of Revoked Licence After Medical Grounds
A driver from the Isle of Wight was found to have been operating a vehicle for four months without a valid driving licence, as revealed in a recent court hearing. Sam Woodmore, a 37-year-old resident of Somerset Road in Ryde, was caught driving on April 1 without any form of valid licence. He claimed he was unaware that his licence had been revoked by the DVLA on medical grounds in December of the previous year.
Woodmore appeared at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (July 1) and admitted to the offence. The case came to light after officers noticed him driving on Ryde Esplanade around 3:15 pm. Acting on information that he was disqualified from driving, they pulled him over on Marlborough Road shortly after.
The prosecution, represented by Liz Miller, stated that Woodmore had no prior convictions. However, it was noted that he had been involved in a crash in October of the previous year, where he “inexplicably” passed out while driving. This incident led to further investigation into his fitness to drive.
During the court proceedings, Jim Osborne, who was representing Woodmore, argued that a comprehensive medical examination found no issues with his health. He highlighted that medical documents confirming Woodmore’s fitness to drive were sent to the DVLA. Despite this, the DVLA had automatically revoked his licence due to medical concerns.
Osborne emphasized that there was no indication of substandard driving when Woodmore was stopped. He stressed that the driver had been “completely fit to drive” and that the revocation of his licence was not based on any current medical condition.
The magistrates considered the circumstances of the case and decided to fine Woodmore £40, along with £85 in costs and a £16 surcharge. Additionally, three penalty points were added to his record.
Key Points from the Case
- Revoked Licence: Woodmore’s driving licence was revoked on medical grounds in December, but he remained unaware for four months.
- No Prior Convictions: The defendant has no history of driving-related offences.
- Medical Examination: A thorough medical check-up confirmed that Woodmore was fit to drive.
- Automatic Revocation: The DVLA revoked the licence without direct communication to the driver.
- Court Outcome: Woodmore received a fine, costs, and penalty points for driving without a valid licence.
This case highlights the importance of staying informed about one’s driving status, especially when medical conditions are involved. It also raises questions about the communication process between the DVLA and drivers, particularly when licences are revoked without direct notice.
