Drivers in UK aged 90 and above passes 100,000 mark

Senior drivers and their families are being encouraged to watch for any early signs of unsafe driving.

Although age itself does not need to be a barrier to safe driving, Road safety and breakdown cover specialist GEM Motoring Assist have stated the importance of being aware of warning signs relating to failing health or reduced ability in a driver that could lead to posing a higher risk on journeys.

Official figures show that the number of licence holders aged over 90 topped 100,000 for the first time in summer 2017. This rose to 113,000 in summer 2019. The research also showed more than 500 centenarians still hold licences.

GEM road safety officer Neil Worth said: “It has long been GEM’s policy that as many people as possible should 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 may not be aware of their changing actions or the growing risks they may pose – to themselves and to others - on journeys.

“There’s no upper age limit for driving. The only requirement in law for drivers aged over 70 is to declare every three years that they are fit to drive. In the absence of retesting 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.”

The law is also clear is on the requirement for drivers of any age to report certain specific conditions to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), as they could affect someone’ ability to stay safe at the wheel. These conditions include diabetes, syncope (fainting), certain heart conditions or having a pacemaker fitted, sleep apnoea, epilepsy, strokes and glaucoma.

Failure to report a condition that could affect someone’s ability to drive safely can lead to a fine of up to £1000, with possible prosecution if they are involved in a collision.

“If you are concerned that a medical condition is affecting an elderly relative’s ability to drive safely, you can report your concerns anonymously to DVLA via an online form,” says Worth.

“If your concerns are not related to a medical condition, then the first step might be as simple as having an informal chat with your relative. Ask a few questions, find out if they still feel safe and where they might be experiencing particular difficulty.

“If your concerns are more serious, then for the sake of everyone’s safety, you must give details to the police. Once again, you can do this anonymously.”