Older drivers need help to stay on the road safely

Commenting on Tuesday evening’s ITV programme ‘Driving me Crazy’ (22 May), David Williams, Chief Executive of GEM Motoring Assist (formerly The Guild of Experienced Motorists) dismisses the suggestion of compulsory driving tests for drivers over the age of 70.

‘Safe and considerate driving is not a factor connected with a driver’s age. Drivers over 70 can be good or bad drivers as can those in their teens. We need greater levels of encouragement and advice for all drivers to adopt a greater sense of responsibility on the road. We also need an urgent return to greater levels of traffic policing,’ said David.

The ITV programme suggested that all drivers aged 70 and over should face a compulsory driving test, however, most road safety experts agree that such a scheme is unachievable and would not be cost effective.

David Williams added: ‘Drivers cherish the independence and mobility that car ownership brings and more effort should be made to ensure that all drivers are physically and mentally fit for the task. We have long campaigned for compulsory eye tests for all drivers and also wish to see more medical checks carried out.

‘We also continue to offer the Experienced Driver Assessment Scheme that allows drivers the opportunity to have an independent check on their driving without the fear of failing a test.’

Any driver wishing to undertake a driving assessment should ring 01342-825676 or e-mail info@motoringassist.com.