Supporting Safe Driving into Old Age (report)

Organisation: Road Safety Foundation
Date of Publication: November 2021
Uploaded to Knowledge Centre: 1 December 2021

Setting targets to reduce deaths and serious injuries for drivers aged over 70 years by 50% by 2030 – and a longer-term aspiration for zero deaths among this age group by 2050 – is a key recommendation in this report authored by a team of older driver experts.

The report has been published by the Road Safety Foundation on behalf of the Older Drivers Task Force, which the Foundation heads up.

The Older Drivers Task Force was originally commissioned by the DfT in 2016 to make recommendations to help older drivers continue to drive while they are still safe to do so.

Other key proposals in the new report include:

  • Introducing mandatory eyesight testing with an optometrist or medical practitioner at the age of 70 years and at further licence renewals
  • A programme to make T junctions safer – a notorious risk-point for older drivers
  • ‘Immediate’ research into the impact of physical and cognitive medical conditions, including diabetic peripheral neuropathy, that may contribute to pedal confusion
  • Standardised content for driving appraisals and certified and trained instructors to assist older drivers
  • National roll-out of an ‘alternative to prosecution’ for careless driving for older motorists

For vehicles, the report recommends that the Government takes on board EU standards of vehicle safety technology, and conducts further research into advanced occupant restraint systems such as split buckle or crisscross seat belts – in recognition of the frailty of older drivers and passengers.

Download the report from the Road Safety Foundation website: