Have you ever questioned if elderly drivers are still capable of operating a motor vehicle? Above all, should they be obliged to take exams, in the same way as retaking an exam would be required? Age isn’t everything, that much is certain. However, some indicators should encourage prudence.
Is it safer or riskier to drive after the age of 75?
A horrible accident has happened in La Rochelle. Several individuals were hurt when an 83-year-old vehicle struck a group of kids riding bicycles. She was riding in the incorrect direction. The subject of how old a person may drive safely is brought up by this accident.
According to data from the Road Safety Authority, drivers over 75 are just as likely to be involved in collisions as young persons between the ages of 18 and 24. Although this connection may seem remarkable, it is clear that as people age, their vision, reflexes, hearing, and attention can all deteriorate.
Does driving have an age restriction?
The answer is surprisingly straightforward: no.
The B licence in France is good for life, unless there has been a major infraction or a court ruling. To drive a private vehicle, no age-required medical examination or checkup is required.
France has opted to emphasise personal accountability, in contrast to nations such as Italy or Germany that require health examinations after the ages of 70 or 75.
A Clever Fix
Senior drivers have the option to have a licensed physician or their doctor assess their ability if they so want. They can test your eyesight, reflexes, and coordination. They may even advise you to avoid certain dangerous circumstances or drive just during the day.
Refresher classes are another excellent choice. Seniors can re-learn the Highway Code, gain a better understanding of current material (such roundabouts or driving assistance), and receive constructive criticism on their driving skills by taking these courses.
Get your car and your driving ready: a successful strategy
Driving can become much easier as we become older by moving from a manual to an automatic gearbox. To raise awareness of these useful changes among senior drivers, special courses are being held across France.
Additionally, several driving schools offer senior-specific lessons with individualised supervision and comforting assistance.
What if we stopped blaming each other?
It is preferable to rationally promote senior drivers rather than stigmatise them. They frequently have decades of experience without any incidents, after all. Although their experiences are priceless, a little assistance in keeping current can make a huge impact.