Dealing With Elderly Drivers
High profile accidents involving elderly motorists make headlines. However, laws that require the frequent retesting of older drivers are not an effective way to address this problem. These tests overlook the loss of cognitive skills that affect judgment, which cause most accidents in which the elderly are involved, and they needlessly inconvenience thousands of safe drivers just because of their age.There is a better way. Problematic drivers who have an abnormally high rate of accidents or traffic violations could have their records flagged. These people would be subjected to a thorough evaluation that would look for a reduction in their ability to drive safely. If the evaluation indicates significantly diminished cognitive or critical physical abilities, the person's driver's license would be revoked. To be fair, there would be an appeal process for those who lose their licenses.
Revoking the licenses of dangerous motorists is only part of the solution. After all, these people will still need to go the grocery store, doctor's office, and social events with family.
Fortunately, there are several programs out there already that are seeking new alternatives to driving for the elderly. A Maine-based organization offers rides to seniors round-the-clock for a modest fee. It even allows them to donate their cars to get credit toward future trips. In Atlanta, taxi services accept reduced-fare vouchers from elderly customers. Oklahoma City's approach is far more glamorous. The city has contracted for idle limousines to drive elderly patrons around.
As our population continues to age, the challenge will be to identify and refine the best programs addressing elderly mobility and to expand their reach throughout the country. Our lawmakers' time would be better spent doing that, instead of mandating yet another driving test for older motorists.
