Make older motorists take regular eye tests, says AA

CAMPAIGNERS have called for a crackdown on older motorists after Prince Philip finally gave up his driving licence.

Safety charity Brake has led calls for compulsory eyesight and medical tests for elderly drivers since his crash.

And last night motoring group the AA also called for drivers to show proof of regu - lar eye tests in order to hang on to their licence. Motorists over 70 must complete a self - assessment every three years and declare that they are in good enough shape to continue driving. But there is no requirement to take a formal driving test or medical exami - nation to continue driving.

The process simply involves filling in a form saying they are fit to drive and that their health and eyesight does not prevent them driving safely . Edmund King, president of the AA, said young male drivers within six months of passing their test are more at risk of a crash than older drivers within six months of hanging up their keys.

But he added: ‘W e would, though, like to see drivers over the age of 70 showing proof of regular eye tests in order to keep their licences.’

Both the AA and the RAC said that banning people over a certain age from driving is not justified.