A significant number of British families are holding difficult conversations about the safety of their older relatives behind the wheel, according to a new survey commissioned by the charity IAM RoadSmart.
The research, conducted by OnePoll on November 3 and 4, sampled adults across the UK who have an older relative that drives. It found that nearly half (46%) of respondents have discussed whether their older family member is safe to drive.
What's Driving the Concern?
The survey uncovered the specific reasons behind these family worries. A substantial 35% of those who raised concerns said the primary reason was feeling anxious when being driven by the older person. Furthermore, 20% reported they had noticed new dents or scratches on the relative's vehicle, prompting the conversation about driving capability.
Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart's director of policy and standards, acknowledged the delicate nature of the issue. "While we all worry about our relatives' safety, many fret over needing to chat with them about their driving for fear of causing offence," he said. Lyes also confirmed that some families wait until they see physical evidence, like new damage to the car, before they feel compelled to speak up.
Calls for a Review of the System
The charity is using these findings to call for a formal review of the licence renewal system for older drivers. Currently in the UK, drivers are not required to undergo any mandatory checks of their skills or health after obtaining a licence, irrespective of their age. The onus is on the individual to inform the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) if they are no longer fit to drive.
This issue is gaining political traction. In April, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander told MPs she was "open to considering" eyesight tests for older motorists. This potential policy change is expected to form part of the Government's upcoming road safety strategy.
Balancing Independence and Public Safety
Nicholas Lyes was careful to note that many people over 70 are "safe and considerate drivers." However, he warned that "with age can come change in driving ability." He stressed that the government's updated road safety strategy must ensure that independence and safety are balanced equally.
Lyes suggested that any move to strengthen eyesight requirements should be matched with funding for voluntary mature driver courses, providing a supportive path for older drivers to refresh their skills.
A Department for Transport spokesperson responded, stating: "It’s vital we balance people’s freedom to drive with public safety, which is why there are already strict checks and conditions on older drivers." The spokesperson highlighted the existing rule that drivers must declare they are fit to drive and report any medical condition to the DVLA.
They confirmed that these conditions are being reviewed as part of the forthcoming road safety strategy, with work aimed at ensuring the rules remain suitable for the UK's ageing population.
