The subject of elderly drivers and how appropriate it is for them to still be driving has been in the media lately as the Government has changed the legislation so that the medical profession can disclose patient information to the driving authority regarding how suitable it is for a person to be driving from a medical point of view. It has been hotly contested and created much ill feeling. Many elderly drivers are understandably very protective about their ability to drive, it offers them much needed independence and freedom. Coupled with that, no matter what age a person is, no-one likes to have their pride and dignity dented by being told they should not be driving.
I recently mentioned this in a monthly article that I write in our local area, and a 79 year old female responded to it, saying that she was uncertain how good a driver she actually is. It turned out that her husband who also drives, was continually making comments about her driving, and the seed of doubt was beginning to spread.
The benefit of having an independent assessment from a professional such as myself, is that firstly, it is just that, independent, a fresh pair of eyes with no "history", and secondly it will be objective and based on modern day standards. The assessment is backed up with a written summary which includes positive points as well as areas for improvement.
Crucially though, it is not a test. One of the fundamental reasons why elderly drivers would naturally feel threatened by this latest Government amendment is that they will interpret it in the manner of a pass/fail test. Yet, one of the distinct advantages of an assessment is that it offers help, tips, guidance and advice that is not part of a legal process involving authorities.
Subjects that are typically covered include:
The types of journey normally covered, and how they are planned for in advance
Eyesight, hearing, reaction, spatial awareness and forward planning assessment
Modern time driving eg signs, highway code, road design (big roundabouts), road law
Setting up the car to afford proper control and effective observations
Planning for dealing with an emergency breakdown
Ability to adapt to differing driving conditions
Pros and cons of modern day technology
The journey that we use here at BIG TOM Driving School has been carefully selected so that it offers an opportunity to drive in differing driving conditions, and we can assess the ability to take extra care when needed, keep up with traffic as appropriate, identify varying max speed signs, comply with road law, manage modern day road etiquette, and accommodate the pressures and demands of the driving environment of today.
This subject can be very difficult for family members, and dear friends to raise when they might have valid concerns about someone who is close to them, and their safety on the roads. What this assessment does is take that personal element away from the situation, and put the burden on the shoulders of an independent and qualified assessor.
To read more about this subject and how we can help click on this link.
BIG TOM Driving School Telephone: 0800 689 4174
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