Older people: All bad drivers should be retrained

Age Concern published new research today that suggests nearly all UK adults over the age of 65 believe bad drivers should have to retake their license test, regardless of age.

The research comes as discussions over automatic re-sits for all older drivers heat up, something Age Concern believes is discriminatory.

In September 2007, the DVLA proposed that special driving tests should be introduced for motorists aged 70 or over, to make sure they are still "safe" behind the wheel.

Despite this, figures released by the Institute of Advanced Motorists demonstrate that these same drivers are statistically safer drivers than those under 30.

Age Concern would not, however, oppose a scheme that targets those with "questionable" driving records, no matter what their age.

Over half of the people surveyed by Age Concern drive, showing how important it is for the elderly to have independent transport options.

This is backed up by Elizabeth Dainton of the Royal Automobile Club Foundation, whoalso believes that those elderly people who have their own means of transport lead better and more productive lives.

Around one in six of those surveyed by Age Concern already feel discriminated against while driving, so any further restraints would make the situation worse.

Antony Osborne, from Age Concern Insurance Services, commented: "Our research shows that older people feel they shouldn't be singled out and any questionable motorists should be retested, no matter what age they are.

"At Age Concern, we know that older people need their cars to remain independent, even if it is just to pop to the shops once a week, and can often find it frustrating obtaining car insurance.

"We have designed our insurance policies to meet their needs. Unlike many other insurers, we operate no upper age limits when quoting for older drivers."