Negative Australian media on older drivers
National Seniors Australia (NSA) has responded to recent negative TV reports on the issue of older driver testing on behalf of its members and the broader seniors’ community.
NSA has been making direct representations to state and territory governments as well to as road transport authorities on the issue.
It now states that:
Losing one’s licence can have significant impacts on older people including increased risk of social isolation and depression.
It is therefore essential that this issue is part of a balanced debate. It is also important it be viewed in context- the number of fatalities for the over 70s is more or less the same as for the 30-39 and 40-49 age groups (NSW Road and Traffic Authority).
Research also suggests that the fatality rate for 21-24 year olds is much higher than in older age groups.
Some older drivers, as with all other age groups, may be a risk on the roads. Accordingly, mechanisms are needed to assess an individual’s driving capacity.
However, NSA does not believe that driving tests should be mandatory at a certain age, as this discriminates on the basis of a number rather than capability.
Appropriately targeting medically-at-risk drivers, rather than older drivers, would be a positive step forward in this regard.
NSA also believes there is an opportunity for government to provide voluntary driver ‘refresher’ or defensive driving courses.
This would allow older drivers to re-familiarise themselves with road safety education and update their knowledge of driving environments and conditions.
