Why HGV Drivers Need Income Protection
As an HGV driver, your livelihood depends on two things: your health and your licence. Any medical condition that affects your ability to drive – including diabetes, heart conditions, epilepsy, vision problems, or sleep apnoea – could cost you your licence and your income overnight.
Licence risk: DVLA can revoke your HGV licence (Category C/C+E) for medical reasons at any time. Conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, certain heart conditions, sleep apnoea, and epilepsy can all result in licence revocation. Without your licence, you cannot earn.
Key Risks for HGV Drivers
- Back and joint problems – Long hours sitting, loading/unloading, vibration exposure
- Sleep apnoea – Common in drivers, can lead to licence revocation
- Diabetes – Type 1 diabetes can result in losing your HGV licence
- Heart conditions – DVLA has strict cardiovascular standards for HGV drivers
- Mental health – Isolation, long hours, and time away from family
Self-Employed HGV Drivers
Many HGV drivers are owner-operators or work through agencies with no employer sick pay. Your income stops the moment you stop driving. Income protection is the only way to ensure your family’s finances are protected during illness or injury.
Policy Features to Look For
- “Own occupation” definition – Pays if you cannot drive an HGV, even if you could do other work
- No mental health exclusions – Important given the isolation and stress of long-haul driving
- Day-one accident cover – Some policies pay immediately for accidents
- Cover until retirement – Not a short-term 2-year policy
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Standard risk, competitive premiums.
A 30-year-old earning £35k: around £25–45/month for 60% income replacement.