Experts are urging older drivers to ensure they inform the DVLA of any significant medical conditions. Otherwise, elderly people may be called to take a physical fitness test and forced off the road.
There are increasing calls for elderly drivers to undergo physical fitness tests and medical examinations when applying for driver’s license renewal, but these are currently not being implemented.
Once you reach the age of 70, it’s standard to renew your license, but younger drivers will need to renew every three years instead of every 10 years.
Older drivers have come under increased scrutiny in recent weeks following the fatal crash in which 91-year-old Edith Duncan killed 3-year-old Xander Irvine.
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Older drivers must renew their license every three years after reaching the age of 70.
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Sheriff Nigel Ross has released a report into the fatal crash which finds there are “serious flaws” in the self-certification system for drivers aged over 70.
Ms Duncan suffers from age-related frontotemporal dementia, which affected her condition. The report says she is not fit to get behind the wheel and her license will be revoked.
Sheriff Ross suggested that renewal applications by drivers aged over 80 should not be granted unless the applicant successfully completes a “simple initial cognitive assessment”.
A DVLA spokesperson said: “Road safety is our absolute priority and we are carefully considering the sheriff’s recommendations.”
“All drivers must ensure that they meet the medical standards for driving and notify us of the onset or worsening of a medical condition that affects their ability to drive.”
Craig Delahaye, associate director of legal affairs at the National Accident Helpline, told GB News that many older drivers would not be aware that they should not be driving.
He said drivers should therefore alert the DVLA if their medical condition might affect their ability to drive.
Experts said it was “important” that drivers informed the DVLA after reading the list of applicable conditions on the GOV.UK website.
Drivers are advised to inform the DVLA of any medical conditions or disabilities they have, such as diabetes or taking insulin, syncope (fainting), heart disease (including pacemakers), sleep apnea, epilepsy, stroke or glaucoma.
Delahaye added: “Of course, each situation is case-by-case and there are precautions that all drivers, regardless of age, can take before getting behind the wheel.
“But it’s disappointing to see an entire generation cut off from the transportation they relied on because of their age.
“Instead of pointing fingers in situations like this, we should try to educate and support each other so that we understand the rules and make our roads safer for everyone.”
Latest developments:
Elderly drivers are being asked to pass a physical fitness test before getting their license.
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The DVLA has warned that drivers could be fined up to £1,000 if they fail to tell authorities about symptoms that may affect their ability to drive safely.
In certain cases, including those involving serious injury or death, you may be considered to have been driving dangerously prior to the accident and may be prosecuted and sentenced to prison.
