Experts have warned that road users should not wait for an accident to tell them they should quit driving, with slower reaction times among the first warning signs
Elderly motorists have been urged “don’t wait” to quit driving if they believe they pose a danger whilst at the wheel.
Specialists at Green Flag insisted road safety remains the “most important thing to consider” with drivers advised to surrender their driving licence and cease travelling if they feel they present a risk. The motoring experts emphasised that drivers shouldn’t “wait for an accident” to signal it’s time to call it quits.
Reduced reaction times or being oblivious to alterations in highway regulations could serve as initial warning indicators that senior drivers might be approaching the conclusion of their motoring days.
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Additionally, road users grappling with declining vision and hearing, joint and muscle rigidity, and fatigue ought to be contemplating their driving future, reports the Express.
Green Flag stated: “Your safety – and the safety of other road users – is the most important thing to consider. If you’re concerned that your driving is not as good as it was, don’t wait for an accident to convince you to stop.”
Green Flag further recommended that senior road users should consult their GP approximately once a year to verify they remain capable of driving.Drivers harbouring worries about particular health issues should seek medical advice immediately.
Across the UK, there exist no rigid age restrictions dictating when motorists must surrender their licence and cease driving.
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People are merely required to renew their driving licence every three years upon reaching 70 and declare any medical ailments that might present difficulties. Medical conditions that must be declared include diabetes, fainting episodes, cardiac problems and even sleep apnoea.
But the AA says most people voluntarily surrender their licence and stop driving once they hit their mid-70s. They previously stated: “The average age that people give up driving is, according to surveys, 75 years old. It’s important to remember that it may not always be a choice, as certain health conditions mean you’re not legally allowed to get behind the wheel.”
“As mentioned above, as long as your health is still good and there are no other reasons for you to stop driving (e.g. reduction in reaction speeds), then there’s no legal reason that you can’t drive at 90 years old in the UK.”