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Do Older Drivers need to take more Precautions on the Road?
21 January 2019
The recent news of a crash involving the Duke of Edinburgh on a notorious junction in Sandringham has put the spotlight on road safety for older drivers. Although Prince Phillip, aged 97 walked away unhurt after his Land Rover overturned near the royal estate in Norfolk, this has raised the issue of older drivers right to the forefront. We’ve outlined some key talking points for older fleet drivers and some important precautions and advice to stay safe on the roads.
There have been many attempts to form petitions to introduce compulsory, age-related driving tests sent to the Department for Transport and Secretary of State for Transport, coming as a direct result that the 2017 Driving and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) revealed that the number of drivers aged 90 and over in Great Britain had topped 100,000 for first time. With drivers aged between 80 and 89, the figure rises to more than a total of 1.2 million drivers.
One main precaution to take on the UK’s busy roads is to make fewer journeys where possible while avoiding more challenging conditions, such as driving at night or travelling for long distances on the motorways. Experienced drivers can participate in regular ‘Driving Refresher’ courses which are widely available across the country. These provide an option for older drivers to hone their skills all year round.
At Marshall Leasing, we’re conscious of the changing road conditions for not only fleet drivers, but all motorists sharing the love of the road. To help older drivers with their experienced driving skills, we want to break the stereotype that older individuals and technology don’t mix. Our ‘Marshall Assist’ driver application provides immediate access to our emergency breakdown/road-side assistance service, including a location finder if activated on your device.
To find out more on how Marshall Leasing can help you with all your fleet needs, please visit our website here or feel free to call us on 01480 414541.
(photo credit to Life your Life Physical Therapy)
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