GEM Motoring Assist is encouraging family members to be wise to the early signs of unsafe driving in their senior relatives.
There are more than four million drivers aged over 70 in the UK. Many are still driving in their 90s, and nearly 200 centenarians still hold licences.
GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “We want as many people as possible to enjoy the freedom of the open road for as long as possible, but only while they are safe.
“Warning signs relating to failing health or reduced ability can develop slowly and gradually in older drivers. This often means they won’t be aware of their changing actions or the growing risks they may pose – to themselves and to others – on journeys.
“The only requirement in law for any driver aged over 70 is to declare every three years that they are fit to drive. In the absence of re-testing and mandatory eyesight checks, it’s vital that family members and friends are willing to keep an eye on their senior relatives – and take appropriate action if anything causes them concern.”
GEM suggests the following signs that suggest a high risk of danger with a requirement for immediate action: ‘Close calls’ – or ‘oops factor’ moments where a crash almost happens; Dents and scrapes on the car as a result of hitting fences, posts or kerbs or traffic penalty tickets, such as speeding and red traffic light violations.
