Transport bosses highlight dangers facing older drivers

Older drivers are being encouraged to take steps to ensure they are prepared for winter motoring, as well as their vehicles.

The Road Safety North East Scotland (RSNES) partnership says motorists aged 65 and over are traditionally involved in more collisions in December than in any other month.

Driver observation is the most common factor in midwinter accidents. Older drivers often face specific challenges such as poorer eyesight, slower reaction times and reduced physical ability.

The road safety group’s chairman and head of transportation at Aberdeenshire Council, Ewan Wallace, said: “While older drivers bring years of experience to the road, our statistics show that December does seem to pose a particular challenge for them.

“Issues such as reduced daylight hours, weather related issues as well as a busier road network will probably all play their part in this seasonal peak.

“It’s not only vehicles that have to be ready for the road during the winter months, all drivers also need to be fully prepared and this is particularly so for older drivers.”

The partnership says drivers should consider basic issues such as ensuring their eyesight meets the legal requirement for driving and thinking about whether they are comfortable driving in reduced daylight and darkness.

Motorists should also make sure vehicle headlights are clean, in good working order and provide maximum brightness.

“Journey planning can also be beneficial, to consider what other methods of transport might be available,” he added.