Driving instructor gives verdict on whether | Tech News

A driving instructor has given their verdict on whether people over a sure age ought to be allowed to drive as debate rages over whether people ought to should renew their licence as soon as they hit the age of 70.

In latest weeks, there have been stories that Labour and the DVLA may overhaul the driving licence system and usher in new assessments for older motorists.

This has sparked a debate about whether that is an instance of ageism,or a authorities excited about the security of all highway customers by taking into consideration the natural decline of driving capacity as somebody passes by means of their seventies into their eighties.

The marketing campaign, led by attorneys at Hugh James Solicitors Siobhan Thomas, has known as for modifications to the system to keep in mind one of the results of an ageing population – the increase in older motorists on the roads.

In response, driving instructor for RED Driver Training, Rob, has given his verdict on whether the legal guidelines need to change. He stated: “I believe that as long as you are in good health and your eyesight meets the requirements then anyone of pension age shouldn’t have to retake their test.

“It is a requirement to renew your licence from the age of 70 and declare you are ‘fit to drive’. If in doubt seek medical advice so you can ensure you are contributing as a safe driver.”

Despite his view that a driver in good health shouldn’t be prevented from driving as long as they’re healthy and may see nicely, Rob caveated that there ought to be some kind of driving evaluation to make sure one’s driving capabilities are nonetheless there.

He defined: “I do, however, believe that there should be some form of driving assessment every few years (10 years for example) for full licence holders to provide further driver safety education, as there are many drivers on the roads who do generally fall below the standard and present risk to themselves and others.

“It is unlikely this would go through as legislation, but I do feel that the Government and Road Safety agencies/bodies should be more proactive with driver education.”

Rob isn’t the one driving professional to have commented on the matter, with others weighing in on the controversy too, together with First Response Finance’s Jonathan Such.

Jonathan instructed BirminghamLive the matter of assessing older drivers needed to be dealt with with sensitivity as, with the decline of public transport providers, driving will be one of the few methods people can keep some kind of independence.

He stated: “While it’s important that we all take road safety seriously, particularly as we age, these conversations must be handled with sensitivity and balance. More mature drivers often value their independence and mobility enormously and for many, giving up their licence can feel like a loss of freedom.

“People aged 70 and over deliver years of driving expertise and sometimes stay assured, succesful motorists. With upcoming modifications to how licences are managed, together with the shift to digital systems, it’s very important we don’t inadvertently marginalise more mature motorists.”