Drivers over 70 urged to stay out of their cars after 5pm and warned over new ‘assessments’

Elderly motorists[1], particularly those aged 70 and above, born in or before 1955, have received a crucial caution from a motoring organisation dedicated to the safety of senior drivers. The Older Drivers Forum has suggested that these individuals might want to steer clear of driving post-dusk or during peak traffic hours. Acknowledging that many mature drivers are aware of changes in their driving capabilities, the group highlighted the practice of 'self-regulation'.

The forum's guidance was clear: "Many drivers recognise that their driving ability is changing and so change when and where they drive to compensate (this is often called 'self-regulation')." It further recommended that if this resonates with you, it's wise to "avoid certain driving situations" that you find more challenging or tense, such as nighttime, rush hour, bustling intersections, roundabouts, or specific road types like motorways. This advice comes at a time when February sunsets are expected around 5pm.

To enhance safety, the forum also advised: "Allow more time for journeys so you can drive a little more slowly and not be rushed at junctions," and "Reduce the amount of driving you do by using buses, taxis and trains more often.", reports Birmingham Live[2]. Moreover, the forum encourages regular driving assessments and refresher training to ensure safe driving for as long as possible. For further details, they suggest looking into Driving Assessment and Refresher Driver Training.

They also advise learning from past mistakes and close calls, reflecting on difficult situations, and considering alternative actions to prevent future occurrences. "Join the Blue Badge scheme, if you are eligible, which provides exemptions from some parking restrictions and access to designated parking spaces if you or your passenger have severe mobility problems. This would allow you to park nearer to your destination.

The scheme operates differently in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and is managed by local councils." "Change or adapt your car to make your driving easier and safer. Consider whether it is time to retire from driving.

If you travel less than 2,000 miles a year it is often much cheaper to use a taxi rather than maintain and use a car." Drivers have also been warned of number plates being banned in 2025.[3] Owners of the Tesla Model 3, which is becoming one of the most popular cars, are also set to be hit with a huge tax bill[4] in 2025. Drivers over 70 have also been warned they could be made to take two new assessments[5] in 2025 when renewing their licence.

In an interview with BBC[6] Radio Solent, Rob Heard. who founded the Older Drivers Forum, addressed older drivers aged 70, stating: "There's a lot being done to support younger drivers but there's not anything out there to support mature and older drivers, so that's why I set up the Older Drivers Forum.

"It's all about helping and supporting people to carry on driving as long as possible but safely." Heard also urged older drivers to take regular vision tests and voluntary driving assessments to maintain their skills.

References

1. ^ motorists (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
2. ^ Birmingham Live (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
3. ^ Drivers have also been warned of number plates being banned in 2025. (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
4. ^ huge tax bill (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
5. ^ take two new assessments (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)
6. ^ BBC (www.chroniclelive.co.uk)