Older drivers a road safety risk, says new survey
A new survey carried out by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart has revealed that nearly half of adults believe older drivers are a risk to road safety.
This comes after a survey of more than 2,000 people carried out by OnePoll found that 46% of said they had been forced to have difficult conversations with an older relative about their standard of driving.
More than a third (35%) admitted they felt unsafe while in the car with an older relative, while 20% said they had noticed new dents or scratches on the vehicle.
Of those who had spoken to a relative about stopping driving, 29% said they felt compelled to do so after noticing their reactions or judgement deteriorating.
Self-declaration
According to UK law, drivers have to renew their driving licence every three years from the age of 70. But the system relies on self-declaration that the driver meets the required eyesight standards for driving, and a disclosure of any medical condition that might affect driving.
Additional research by IAM RoadSmart found that 85% support compulsory eye-testing for those over 70, and more than half (57%) support a requirement to pass a theory and practical test to continue driving at the age of 70.
Driving ability
IAM RoadSmart director of policy and standards Nicholas Lyes said: “We know that for many over 70s, their car is a lifeline; a way of maintaining their independence and their social life, especially in rural areas where public transport can be lacking.
“Moreover, many older drivers are safe and considerate drivers. However, with age can come change in driving ability, whether through health, reaction times or confidence.
“The government’s updated road safety strategy must ensure independence and safety are balanced equally. Moves to strengthen eyesight requirements would be welcome but this should go together with funding to help people undertake voluntary mature driver courses.
“By doing so, it will support older people to improve their skills and confidence on the road, promoting safe independence for over 70s.”
