ACFO is reminding fleets of both the forthcoming changes to Vehicle Excise Duty and the importance of drivers informing the DVLA of a ‘notifiable’ medical condition or disability that could affect their ability to drive.

Employers are being urged to alert the DVLA to any medical condition and disability that could impact on an individual’s ability to drive

The move comes after ACFO deputy chairman Caroline Sandall recently met with DVLA officials to discuss both issues.

The post-general election 2015 summer Budget saw the Government announce changes to Vehicle Excise Duty for cars first registered from 1 April, 2017.

First year rates of VED will vary according to the CO2 emissions of the vehicle – £0 for zero emission cars and £10 for cars with emissions of 1-50g/km up to £2,000 for cars with emissions above 255g/km. A flat standard rate of £140 will apply in all subsequent years, except for zero-emission cars for which the standard rate will be £0. Cars with a list price above £40,000 will attract a supplement of £310 on the standard rate for the first five years in which the standard rate is paid.

All cars first registered before 1 April, 2017 will remain in the current VED system, which will not change.

Sandall said: “DVLA wants ACFO to publicise the changes as the date for their introduction looms and we are happy to oblige.”

Meanwhile, issues concerning employees’ fitness to drive have intensified following the fatal December 2014 Glasgow bin lorry crash. Investigations found that the driver, Harry Clarke, repeatedly lied to gain and retain jobs and licences.

Subsequently, there has been growing pressure on employees, employers and doctors to alert the DVLA to any medical condition and disability that could impact on an individual’s ability to drive.

Additionally, last year new road-side drug screening devices were introduced, along with new driving limits for a string of prescription drugs.

Sandall added: “The DVLA is reaching out to ACFO to raise awareness of all issues around medication and its impact on the ability to drive. It is a message that ACFO will promote to its members.”