The Australian government has made a significant change in the new driving policies which stipulate that individuals aged 65 and above must undergo additional medical and practical tests to retain their licenses. These alterations consider the safety of all road users while simultaneously aiding the elderly in driving. This is put into effect because the number of elderly drivers is increasingly on the rise.
Why Are Rules Changed?
Recent statistics indicate that elderly individuals aged 65 and over constitute roughly 15% of drivers, however, they account for approximately 20% of serious road accidents. Theories from experts attribute this to medical conditions associated with aging, such as slower reaction times, limited peripheral vision, and a decline in cognitive function. These conditions motivated many governments to take action and change the licensing policies, all in the name of safety.
What’s Changing for Elderly Drivers?
Legislation is now changing for elderly drivers, after undergoing an incident, medical checks will not be mandatory, unlike the previous rules. Under the new rules, mandatory health assessments will be required from the ages of 65 and 70, varying from state to state. In Victoria, medical assessments are mandated every two years beginning at 70 years, with more frequent assessments after 80. Queensland has the most stringent requirements; they mandate medical assessments as early as 65 for some drivers and universally at 75, as well as requiring medical and fitness to drive assessments.
With the documented assessments, older drivers may be required to undergo on road practical driving assessments to gauge their real-time skills with the vehicle. These assessments are specifically to ascertain safe driving practices and determine if age has resulted in the decline of critical skills. For instance, New South Wales mandates drivers aged 85 and older to undergo the older driver assessment every 2 years. Some states are lenient as assessments can be conducted through teleconference from the dash of the vehicle.
Not About Removal, But Safety
With regard to these new policies, there is no intention to remove older drivers from the road without just cause. A good number of older drivers will sufficiently fulfill the standards, allowing them to travel safely and confidently for years. The focus is to help enable and identify those trapped by the difficulties of aging with appropriate support.
With these policies being implemented at different times across state borders over the next 18 months, these policies will invite proactive older individuals to prepare for necessary assessments needed for the renewal of the driver’s license. The overarching goal is the creation of a safer network for all users, achieving an optimal trade-off between independence and protection.
