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Seniors At The Wheel: Age Limit For License Renewals? PDF Print E-mail


Q: When I drive in retirement areas, I see many very elderly people at the wheel on roads and highways, and it makes me nervous. I’m 68, and beginning to have some eye troubles, and my on-road reaction times are slowing down, especially at night. My kids tell me I’m ready to give up driving. Should there be an age limit on seniors getting renewed driver’s licenses?  HGJ, Coral Gables FL

A: Hell, no! I'm 80 and still drive daily. Not as sharp as I was 60 years ago, but still responsible. There are drivers in their 90s I'd much rather share the road with than any drunk or druggie teen. Yes, I was once one of those wild kids, and lucky I didn't kill myself or anyone else by my stupid impaired driving.

It’s totally unfair to set an arbitrary age limit where seniors are automatically banned from driving. As most teen drivers obey all laws and drive responsibly, the great majority of seniors on the road are at least as safe.

There should be more frequent driving tests for seniors, such as every two years from age 60 to 70, and then annually. Before applying for renewal, seniors should be examined by a physician for eyesight, reaction times and other physical conditions

If the physician OKs, seniors should show written proof to the license bureau. During testing, seniors should also be required to drive out on the road or test track with instructors.

 

 
 
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