subject: Are you safer than a teen? [print this page] Many people who continue driving in later life fail to recognise the effects of the ageing process on their driving ability, which can in some cases pose a significant risk to themselves, their passengers and other road users.
That said, there are also strong cases to be made in defence of drivers over 50 being much safer and more responsible on the roads than younger drivers, whose often reckless behaviour and relative lack of experience can be reflected in higher insurance premiums.
Experience counts a great deal for such a practical consideration as driving, meaning older drivers with more years behind the wheel are understandably viewed as less likely to be involved in and make claims for road accidents than newcomers. But the safety issues don't end there, with drivers over 50 having also been found to be much more responsible when using in-car devices and technology than their younger counterparts.
Despite satellite navigation systems and cruise control becoming ever more common features of new cars, relatively few older drivers currently use these, compared to teenage drivers who tend to rely on their assistance much more frequently. Younger drivers were also found to be more prone to making phone calls and texting behind the wheel, with more than a quarter (28 per cent) in a survey of 2000 people having confessed to using mobile phones illegally in vehicles, compared to just 12 per cent of over-50s.
While these statistics and discounts on over 50 car insurance demonstrate the strong safety record of older drivers, they should not cloud the fact that some drivers of advancing years may be increasingly unsuitable for driving, which could be due to a number of factors. Even something as seemingly minor as failing eyesight or weak hearing can have major effects if older drivers are unable to respond to hazards in time to avoid them becoming accidents.
If family members are concerned about an ageing relative's health and driving ability, there are a number of options available. Voicing your concerns with the driver may not be enough, especially if they are unaware of their own reduced abilities, but arranging a consultation with their doctor could provide the necessary evidence either way. Older people who are determined to continue driving can also take specialised driving safety courses and even re-take their driving tests to prove their continued ability to drive.
Are you safer than a teen?
By: Paul Buchanan
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