The freedom to roam...

Tips for safe driving

​

Getting older doesn’t necessarily spell the end for driving, and here at Freedom Driver Training we’re keen on encouraging and empowering older drivers for as long as it’s safe to do so. With that in mind, below are some of our top tips for older drivers:

 

1. Have regular eye tests

As we grow older, our eyesight can deteriorate or change - making it harder to see road signs and other road users. By having regular eye tests, older drivers can ensure that their eyesight stays within the legal limit to drive, and will make spotting hazards easier.

 

2. Check medications

Always seek advice from a doctor or medical professional if you are taking medicines which may impair your ability to drive, or if you notice a change in your ability to drive while on medication.

 

3. Inform the DVLA

There are certain medical conditions which you must inform the DVLA about by law. The conditions including glaucoma in both eyes, strokes, heart conditions and certain forms of diabetes.

 

4. Remove distractions

For older drivers who may have corrected hearing or vision, keeping the vehicle free from distraction is vitally important. Ensuring full concentration on the road and potential hazards will often result in a calmer and safer drive.

 

5. Drive in good conditions

While having the independence to drive anywhere at anytime is extremely important for older drivers, by planning your driving around good conditions (such as on clear, dry days) you can cut out some of the unnecessary risks of driving in wet or icy weather.

 

6. Keep your distance

Creating a ‘safety bubble’ of space around your vehicle will give you more time to prepare for unexpected hazards and can mitigate some loss in reaction times. It also gives you more time to plan and carry out simple procedures such as stopping at a junction.

 

7. Take a voluntary driving appraisal

Having an independent older driver assessment can help to top up the driving skills you first learned when passing your test. For many older drivers, a review of their driving results can give them a renewed sense of confidence to carry on driving safely for years to come.

 

Driving after 70? Renew with confidence

All UK driving licences expire when the holder reaches 70, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you have to stop driving at 70. You just need to renew your driving licence with the DVLA if you want to continue, and will need to renew it every 3 years after that.

For many drivers, knowing whether or not to renew their licence is an easy decision. However, one-to-one driving reviews can offer that extra level of confidence that you’re making the right choice. Some drivers even choose to have an older driver assessment every three years to coincide with their licence renewal dates.