Young Driver
Forget young drivers – over 70s are the danger
Thu, 25 May 2006
The relative inexperience of new drivers means that young driver car insurance can often be more expensive due to the increased chances of a claim, but until now little thought has been given to the driving abilities of older drivers.
Now, a car insurance industry report has found that drivers aged 70 or above are three times more likely to be killed or seriously injured in a car accident than are middle-aged drivers, prompting calls for closer scrutiny of the abilities of older drivers.
The report, from the Association of British Insurers (ABI), found that elderly people were particularly vulnerable to being involved in an accident at a junction or roundabout, due to their poorer judgement and slower reaction times.
Unlike young driver car insurance policies, there are no special provisions for older drivers, who are simply able to continue driving by confirming that they are fit to drive when renewing their policy.
However, the ABI is now calling on the government to require drivers over 70 who wish to continue using their car to be subjected to cognitive tests and eye exams to determine if they are fit and able to take to the roads again.
© Adfero Ltd
