Older drivers are as safe as drivers from all other age groups, according to this research published by the IAM. Contrary to widespread belief, the study shows they have better attitudes to safety, deal with hazards better than young drivers and use experience to increase their safety margins on the road. The report reveals that drivers over 75 react just as quickly as other age groups when a vehicle emerges from a side road or if the car in front brakes suddenly on a rural road. Official statistics show that people over 70 make up 9% of drivers but 6% of driver casualties. This practical study found that where older drivers had slower reaction times they used their experience on the road to compensate by: • Driving at slower speeds on all occasions. • Keeping a bigger following distance than drivers from other age groups. The IAM believes it is important these findings are used in on-road and online assessments to ensure that older drivers understand the risks they face and what they can do to improve their driving in key areas. In the light of the report the IAM is calling for: • A government action plan for older drivers. • More car manufacturers to consider older drivers in vehicle design. • Greater publicity to encourage health professionals to discuss driving. • Better information for older drivers and their families. • Online self-assessment tools for older drivers. • Wider availability of voluntary on-road driving assessments. • Better partnership working at a local level. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting