Skip to main content

As the population ages, the topic of older drivers and road safety is becoming increasingly relevant. Advocates, police officers, and road safety organizations are raising questions about whether drivers over 65 should undergo regular driving assessments to ensure their skills and fitness remain up to par. While many older drivers are cautious and responsible, there are growing concerns about how age-related changes can impact safety on the roads.

The Case for Regular Assessments

Research suggests that age itself is not the primary factor in collisions involving older drivers. Instead, issues often arise from declining eyesight, slower reaction times, and difficulties in judging speed and distance. These subtle changes can develop gradually, leaving drivers unaware of how they may be affecting their abilities behind the wheel.

Road safety advocates, such as the Older Drivers Forum, are calling for voluntary, regular driving assessments for motorists over 65. These reviews could identify areas where improvement is needed or confirm a driver’s continued fitness to drive. The goal is not to restrict independence but to empower older drivers to stay on the road safely for as long as possible.

Understanding the Risks

Data from the Department of Transport highlights a 45% increase since 2010 in the number of drivers aged 70 and over who have been seriously injured or killed in accidents. This statistic is not necessarily because older drivers are reckless; rather, it reflects their increased physical frailty. Older drivers are less likely to engage in risky behaviors like speeding or driving under the influence, but they are more likely to misjudge situations, such as failing to notice other vehicles or accurately estimate another car’s speed.

Drivers who travel fewer than 2,000 miles annually are also shown to have a higher risk of accidents, regardless of age. Limited driving experience may reduce familiarity with road conditions and traffic patterns, increasing the likelihood of mistakes.

Encouraging Self-Checks

Rob Heard, founder of the Older Drivers Forum and a former traffic officer, encourages older motorists to think of driver assessments as a way of “MOT-ing yourself.” Annual health checks, regular eyesight tests, and assessments of reaction times can help ensure drivers remain road-ready. For those unsure about their skills, mature driver assessments can provide constructive feedback without the pressure of passing or failing.

A Growing Challenge

As the number of older drivers is set to triple in the next 20 years, it’s crucial to strike a balance between safety and independence. Older drivers account for approximately 17% of all licence holders and 11% of all miles driven, but they are involved in 23% of fatal road accidents, often due to their physical vulnerability in crashes.

Regular assessments could offer a practical solution, providing reassurance to drivers and their families while addressing potential risks early. Encouraging older motorists to reflect on their driving habits and seek guidance if needed can promote safer roads for everyone.

Driving is more than just a means of transport; for many, it’s a key part of staying connected and independent. Rather than stigmatizing older drivers, initiatives like regular assessments and self-checks can ensure they remain confident and capable on the road. After all, a little proactive effort today can go a long way in keeping older drivers safe and mobile for years to come.

As we move forward, fostering open conversations and offering supportive resources for older drivers will be essential in meeting the challenges of an aging population while maintaining road safety for all.

100% recommend Shift to anyone looking to learn. Simon is an excellent instructor, so calm and confident, took his time to understand me and how I learn best so that I could become a confident driver. Passed today with only 1 minor fault!
Great instructors, Hassan got me passed really fast and even managed to move my test to a sooner date! Super patient and great at explaining. Would highly recommend.
Highly recommend Shift Driving School. They were an absolute pleasure to deal with from start to finish. Special shout out to my instructor Hassan, who taught me from scratch in just under 6 months. I had no previous driving experience at all and he talked through the steps and skills needed clearly, always supportively pushing me to be my best. Delighted to have passed at first attempt! Couldn’t have done it without the team at Swift and Hassan. Thank you!
I had a great experience learning to drive with Shift and my instructor, Ciaran. As an anxious driver, I really appreciated his patience, encouragement, and support, which helped me build up my confidence behind the wheel. The booking app was also very convenient and easy to use, and Ciaran was always flexible and accommodating with my availability. Thanks to his help, I passed my driving test on the first try. Big thank you to Shift and especially to Ciaran for all the support!
I 10000000% recommend this driving school my instructor has been appsalutly amazing he had so much patience and really helped me through all my lessons then he recommend me a nervous course which really helped me as I really struggled with my nerve on my test but I finally done it and passed my test and I wouldn't have been able to do it if it wasn't for lewis so thank u sooooo much :)
My experience using Shift Driving School in Gateshead has been outstanding from start to finish.

My instructor, Simon Houghton, was incredibly patient, personable, and knowledgeable. He explained everything clearly, tailored lessons to my pace, and kept me calm with encouraging, constructive feedback.

His local knowledge and practical tips made a huge difference, and my confidence grew every week.

Thanks to Simon’s guidance, I’ve just passed my driving test and feel ready to drive independently.

I’d highly recommend Shift driving School—especially Simon—to anyone in Gateshead looking for a supportive, professional instructor and great results.
What a great company to not only learn to drive with, but to actually work with too. We would highly recommend Shift without a doubt.
Super organised with their own app which helps you fit your lessons in whenever you like. Lewis is so patient and supportive and very calming when you’re just beginning. He has really developed my confidence and I couldn’t recommend Shift and Lewis enough!
Lewis is a great instructor very patient, clear, and encouraging he made learning to drive feel easy and enjoyable highly recommend.
I passed my test today and would like to thank my instructor, Mr. Hassan. He has been incredibly kind, patient, and clear in his explanations, which made the whole learning experience truly positive. Throughout my journey, I had only one instructor and never felt the need to change, thanks to the excellent guidance I received. I’m also grateful to the Shift team for making everything smooth and convenient through the mobile application.