The latest figures from the Department for Transport found that more elderly drivers are dying on UK roads when compared to 10 years ago.
Deaths among those aged over 70 increased by 26 percent for females and five percent for males, prompting calls for a focus on improved road safety.
In 2022, a staggering 386 fatalities were recorded for drivers aged over 70 years old – a dramatic increase compared to 2012.
Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk, is now calling for a more proactive approach to help bring the number of casualties down.
He added: “The UK generally has some of the safest roads in the world, but this latest data set revealed a hard truth which was difficult to read.
“There should be no reason why we see deaths on our roads for all other ages decreasing when compared to a decade ago but increasing for over 70s.”
Although the data does not list any causes for the fatalities, Mr Jones said certain rules elderly drivers have to abide by should have to apply to all drivers.
Once a person reaches 70 years old, they must renew their driving licence every three years, more often than any age group.
Mr Jones added: “We believe that drivers should be encouraged to undertake further regular driver appraisals once you reach a certain age to ensure everyone can remain safe on the roads.
“Undergoing periodic appraisals, or alternative safer driving courses, is a way of helping motorists maintain their independence while also reducing the risks associated with age-related changes.”
One of the key factors affecting drivers of advanced age is their eyesight, with motorists encouraged to get it checked regularly.
This will ensure they are still safe to be on the roads, protecting themselves and others as well as remaining active.
Earlier this year, the Association of Optometrists (AOP) announced that the DVLA would be making changes to its guidance on eyesight.
The AOP said changes would be coming “in the coming weeks” and is expected to see the DVLA update regulations relating to the list of notifiable eye conditions.
The new list is understood to include information about which eye conditions require drivers to contact the DVLA when renewing their licence.
The AOP had previously raised serious concerns about a DVLA list of vision conditions which may have applied to drivers going for eye tests.
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