Older drivers above the age of 70 urged to do one thing this winter in road safety concern
Older drivers are one of the most vulnerable demographics on the road with those above the age of 70 urged to follow one tip.
Older drivers above the age of 70 have been encouraged to do one thing this winter in a major road safety warning.
Craig Delahaye, Associate Director of Legal Operations at National Accident Helpline, said motorists struggling with their age should visit a GP as soon as possible.
According to experts, attending a consultation does not immediately mean drivers will have their licence taken off them.
Instead, the specialists warn that medication could be altered which may allow some to stay on the roads in a healthier state.
Failing to get any issues checked out could put motorists and other road users at severe risk of being caught up in an accident.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, Mr Delahaye said: “Firstly, drivers are required to renew [their] driving licence when they turn 70, and then every three years following, but this is the only mandatory practice in place.
“It would also be advised for drivers to visit a GP if they feel that certain aspects of their lifestyle are affecting their ability to drive safely.
“If driving is a necessity for them, then it may be possible to tweak some of these factors.
“This includes visiting the GP to change the medication they’re on or the optician to modify a prescription.”
Older drivers are among the most vulnerable on the road and make up a large proportion of UK road deaths.
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According to data from the Department for Transport (DfT), a staggering 27 percent of all car driver fatalities in 2022 were older drivers.
Data shows car driver casualties per billion miles driven are highest for those over 86 years of age.
Meanwhile, those killed or seriously injured between 81 and 85 were still higher than young first-time drivers.
Last year, the number of older drivers killed or seriously injured increased from 3,099 to 3,255, a slight five percent rise.
It is against the law to get behind the wheel of a vehicle if road users believe they are not well enough.
Rule 90 of the Highway Code states motorists must “make sure they are fit to drive”.
The Code adds road users “must” report any health condition likely to affect their driving to the DVLA immediately.
In some circumstances, doctors will recommend drivers give up their licence for safety purposes.
Mr Delahaye added: “The GP may also advice that, for their own safety, it’s best to stop driving altogether.”