Express readers reject calls for elderly drivers to be subject to check-ups

Motorists over the age of 70 are required to new their driving licence every three years, instead of 10, to evaluate their abilities on the road, but Express.co.uk readers have rejected calls for them to also be subject to further tests and appraisals to keep their licence in a new poll.

Last year there were 86 fatalities on the road recorded among those over 70, with the Department for Transport (DfT) data showing a 26 percent increase for females and five percent for males in the last decade.

In response to the latest statistics, motoring experts claim that the six million motorists over the age of 70 who hold full driving licences should be tested to ensure that they are safe to be behind the wheel.

Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk, said: “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.”

Many readers argued that younger drivers were in need of retesting, with username commodelight writing: “See more younger drivers causing problems on the roads.”

Username doingavoctor agreed, commenting: “Insurance companies have all the data required to assess the age ranges of those who have most accidents. I doubt it is the more experienced older drivers.”

Other readers thought that older drivers should be subject to check-ups. Username Bryan_1324 commented: “Yes, after the age of 70, most of us have slower reaction times due to physical and mental decline. Eyesight is also diminished in most cases. Unfortunately, drivers will always say that they are 100 percent even when they are not.”

A DfT spokesperson said: “We have no plans to change the requirements for older drivers.”

While some readers commented that all drivers should be required to complete regular tests of their ability, with username ezergood writing: “All motorists should have a mandatory retest every five years.”

In reply, username AlHamilton said: “Agreed. With tests tailored to the age. Everyone tested written for recent changes in laws, new signage etc. Driving skills for younger drivers concentrating on safe speed, etc. older drivers for reaction time, vision & bad habits picked up over the years.”

Another, username Peter Keen added: “All drivers should be MOT’d annually while their car is done in the garage.”