UK pensioners issued major driving test update | UK | News
The transport secretary has given an update on the possibility of a new driving test for retirees in the UK. It comes as new Parliament petition It called for the implementation of “regular assessments of the driving ability of older drivers”, including full driving tests.
When asked by The Express on this issue, Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood MP did not rule out this move. He said: “I think it’s really important that as a government and as a country we strike a balance between people’s freedom to drive and public safety.
“That’s why there are already very strict controls and conditions on all drivers. By law, everyone has to declare themselves fit.” [to drive]or inform the DVLA of any medical conditions that may affect them. “Clearly, we are reviewing all these conditions as part of our road safety strategy, which is the first in 10 years, and we will ensure that the road safety strategy is relevant to our aging population.”
Asked whether this could consider the possibility of another practical test for older drivers, Mr Lightwood added: “We will continue to review what measures are in place to make sure we can maintain the balance between freedom and public safety.”
If a test were implemented, drivers would have no idea at what age they would be tested.
Motoring campaigner and FairFuelUK founder Howard Cox said: “Drivers should be retested based on their driving history, not their age.
“It has been documented that young drivers have the most accidents.
“However, drivers who are proven to be dangerous must be retested.
“I fully support this review, as well as the verifiable evidence of all drivers’ 20-20 vision.”
Calling for action, the petition stated: “We want the government to introduce mandatory re-driving tests for drivers over 70.
“We think this will make the road safer for everyone: motorcyclists, pedestrians and vehicle users.”
The document aims to implement regular assessments of the driving ability of older drivers, including:
- Full ride retests
- Reaction time and dangers
- maneuverability
- Comprehensive vision examinations
