Older drivers shouldn't be penalised

Transport

Older drivers must be helped to continue driving safely, not forced off the road by legislation, according to a report published today. Europe's population of drivers over the age of 65 is growing by 1.4 per cent a year, faster than any other age group, according to the AA Foundation for Road Safety Research.

"Older drivers are undeniably at greater risk than younger drivers, but this is because they are more susceptible to injury, not because they are involved in more accidents," says the author, Geoff Maycock.

Mr Maycock added that there was no reason to legislate against older drivers because age in itself is no guide to driving ability.

"But there is a strong case for devising ways of helping older people to continue to drive safely for as long as possible."