Older Drivers: How to Stay Safe on the Road for Longer

Are older drivers more dangerous? A 2016 Swansea University study found that older drivers are no more dangerous than other drivers. Reaction times can slow with age, but older drivers make up for it by taking more care on the road.

We at GEM are keen to stand up for the increasing number of older people who choose to continue driving. The support is backed up by findings from a 2016 study led by Dr Charles Musselwhite of Swansea University’s Centre for Innovative Ageing, presented at the British Science Festival, which shows that more mature road users are no more dangerous than other drivers. 

Are older drivers more dangerous?

GEM Motoring Assist road safety officer, comments: “Age discrimination shapes how older persons are treated and perceived, nowhere more than on the road. There is a perception too widely held that older people are slow, dithery and downright dangerous, which is just not true. 

“The study, prepared by researchers at Swansea University, showed that although reaction times may increase as people grow older, this is compensated by older drivers taking more care on road journeys.” 

How does driving change as you get older?

GEM is proud to stand up for older drivers and to give them encouragement to stay as safe as possible on their journeys – for as long as possible. 

“As we grow older, it’s perfectly normal for our driving habits and skills to change. The important thing is to recognise these changes, especially the ones that may compromise safety, so that we can ensure we also take steps to reduce any risks. In that way, we will hopefully continue driving long into later life.” 

When is it time to adapt or stop driving?

Many people carry on driving over 70 safely, but some changes are worth acting on. These are the signs to watch for:

• Getting lost on routes you know well
• Near misses, or finding that other drivers often have to react to you
• Difficulty judging gaps, at junctions, roundabouts or when overtaking
• New dents or scrapes on the car

Adapting can mean avoiding rush hour, night driving or bad weather, and our tips for safer autumn driving may help. Families worried about elderly drivers can use the resource below to raise the subject kindly.

Still Safe to Drive: free advice for older drivers and families

GEM’s free ‘Still Safe to Drive’ video-based web resource (www.stillsafetodrive.org.uk), presented by Valerie Singleton OBE, offers practical advice for everyone on staying safe at the wheel, and also assists family members and friends to find kind but effective ways of helping those senior drivers who may not realise – or will not admit – that they pose a greater risk to others. 

Neil Worth is enthusiastic about the excellent information that can be found on the Still Safe to Drive website, which he says can be put to good use straight away. 

“We’ve consulted doctors, ophthalmologists, psychologists and road safety experts to come up with some simple ways to help extend safe driving careers,” he explains. 

“By combining regular check-ups with regular physical activity, you really can make a difference when it comes to staying as safe as possible for as long as possible. Also, by seeking the advice of experts and the opinions of family members, you can identify possible issues at an early stage and take the appropriate action to put them right. 

“At GEM, we are keen to promote the value of a driver ‘MOT’. The GEM Driver Assessment is a good value, stimulating and highly effective hour-long opportunity to let an experienced instructor make sure you’re as safe behind the wheel as you can be. There’s no test, and nothing to fail – just an enjoyable and worthwhile opportunity to reduce your risk on the road.” 

Renewing your driving license at 70

You need to renew your driving licence at 70, and then every three years. Renewal is free on GOV.UK, and you can do it online up to 90 days before your 70th birthday.

When you renew, you declare any medical conditions that could affect your driving, such as epilepsy, diabetes or certain heart conditions. You also confirm that you meet the eyesight standard, which means being able to read a number plate from 20 metres, wearing glasses or contact lenses if you normally use them to drive.

Older drivers FAQ

Is there an upper age limit for driving in the UK? 

No, there is no upper age limit for elderly drivers in the UK. You can keep driving for as long as you meet the eyesight and health standards. You must renew your licence at 70 and every three years after that.

Do you need a medical to drive over 70? 

Not as a routine. When you renew your driving licence at 70, you make a declaration and tell the DVLA about any medical condition that could affect your driving. The DVLA may then ask your doctor for more information or arrange an assessment or test.

How often should older drivers have an eye test?

Every two years is the usual advice, or sooner if your optician recommends it or you notice changes in your vision. Our article on why drivers should book an eye test explains more.

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