Travelling safely after a heart event

Here’s your guide to driving and travelling after a heart event

You can usually travel straight away as a passenger in a car, train, tram or bus after a heart event, diagnosis or procedure. But for your safety, and of those around you, there are waiting periods before driving a car or flying.

Here are some tips for travelling after a heart event, diagnosis or procedure:

• Long trips may make you feel tired, or you may get car sick more easily than usual, so try to have frequent breaks.
• When on public transport make sure you have a seat, so you don’t get too tired.
• If you find public transport stressful, try to plan other ways to travel for the first few weeks and avoid peak-hour traffic.
• Speak with your insurer (for driving and other travel) to make sure that you’re covered for any accidents. 

Flying 

Check with your doctor when you can travel by plane. You may need a medical clearance form. If you are unsure, ask the airline about any travel requirements. Your travel insurance cover may also be affected by a new heart condition, and you may require a medical assessment and/or the price of the cover may change. 

Driving 

The waiting time before you can drive is a decision your doctor will make with you. Your doctor will need to approve whether you can get behind the wheel. If you drive without medical clearance, your insurance may not cover you if you have an accident.

Standard waiting times before driving after a heart event or procedure:

*If you drive a commercial vehicle, such as a truck or forklift, the waiting times are longer. Consult your doctor for advice on waiting times appropriate for your situation.

Some medicines may impact your ability to drive so ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of your medicines.

Your driver’s licence

By law, you must report a permanent or long-term health condition that could affect your driving - this includes a heart problem. You need to report this after it happens, not just when you next renew your driver’s licence. To check what you need to do, contact the licensing agency in your state or territory. Remember, it is your responsibility to follow any conditions on your licence.