Older drivers 'should undergo annual health checks'

Drivers over the age of 70 should go through annual health checks to ensure they remain fit enough to take control of a vehicle, one safety campaign group has suggested.

Brake is calling for controls on older drivers following the death of a toddler when an 89-year-old driver became ill at the wheel and lost control, mounting a pavement.

Under current law, drivers over 70 years old have to renew their licence and fill in a self-assessment form every three years, but Brake deputy chief executive Cathy Keeler said this is not enough.

"There should be an annual fit to drive health check carried out by a professional," she commented.

Such assessments should also be made every five years on drivers under the age of 70, Ms Keeler continued.

The charity has pointed out that there is no set age at which all people will become unable to drive, as health deteriorates differently. In any event, older people involved in a crash are likely to come off worst.