Supporting Safe and Confident Driving as We Grow Older
1. Why Check-Ins Matter
Conversations about older drivers aren’t meant to restrict
independence but to support safety.
Small changes in vision or reaction time can affect driving,
and “gentle, routine check-ins” help older drivers stay aware of their strengths and needs.
2. Learning From Real Incidents
Events like “the incident in La Rochelle where an older driver became disoriented”
show why proactive discussions are important—not for blame, but for preparedness and dignity.
3. What the Data Shows
France’s Road Safety Authority notes that drivers over 75 have
accident rates similar to very young drivers, and while France treats a
B license as lifelong, countries like Germany and Italy use age-based
health assessments, offering “added peace of mind.”
4. Supporting Safe, Confident Driving
Voluntary evaluations, vision or hearing checks,
and refresher courses can help older drivers maintain confidence
while ensuring safety, balancing independence with the needs of an aging population.
