Thousands of HGV drivers given bogus medical tests in the back of vans

Thousands of HGV drivers across the UK are suspected of receiving bogus medical tests in the back of vans, compromising their ability to renew their licenses safely. The company, Doctors on Wheels, promised "cheap medicals" from "fully licensed doctors" but allegedly employed unqualified staff who conducted consultations lasting mere minutes.

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People who were known to the DVLA as having health conditions were being signed off as perfectly fit.

Investigators found instances where drivers were declared fit to operate heavy goods vehicles despite significant health impairments. One driver was reportedly given a "full pass" despite being profoundly deaf, while another was recorded as having perfect vision despite possessing a glass eye. These findings suggest a systemic failure to uphold safety standards in the licensing process.

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put profit before safety

Andrew Eburne, the company director, was convicted of fraud at Swansea Crown Court and received a four-year prison sentence. The judge stated that Eburne had "put profit before safety" and played a "leading role" in business dealings that compromised public safety. Trading Standards investigators highlighted that Doctors on Wheels significantly undercut competitors by offering tests for "just under £60."

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a leading role

Undercover investigators posing as drivers booked tests online and attended appointments in vans in Swindon, Huddersfield, and Leicester. They discovered that staff in each location used the same doctor's stamp and signature on completed forms, indicating fraudulent processing. Covert recordings also appeared to show staff assisting patients with eye tests and allowing them to take forms home, further suggesting a lack of proper medical assessment.

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business dealings served to compromise public safety