Elderly Drivers At Risk Of Being Reported To DVLA

It's just come to my attention that doctors are now required to report any motorist they fear could cause danger on the roads to the DVLA. This has come about due to a growing concern about the number of elderly drivers in Britain.

Hmm, this is a tricky one. On the one hand, there are so many accidents on the roads these days that I think it's important to try to avoid these increasing any further. When you consider that statistics show that elderly drivers cause as many accidents as teenagers who have just passed their tests due to slower reaction times, and failing eyesight (I am, of course, referring to the elderly drivers here, not the teenagers. Though, with the amount of time teens spend on the Internet and the XBox 360 these days, it wouldn't surprise me if they couldn't see past the car in front!), the new requirement seems very sensible indeed.

On the other hand, there is the issue of doctor-patient confidentiality. Is it right to report a driver to the DVLA? Those over 70 already have to renew their licences every 3 years and are required to inform the DVLA if there is any concern from the doctor over driving. But then, there are bound to be a few who won't inform the DVLA out of fear of being taken off the road. Hmm, it's a tough one.

I have to say though, by the time I reach 70 (a very long way off, I'll have you know!), I'd like to think that I'll have someone else to chauffeur me around in my retirement. After all my years of hard work, it'll be my chance to sit back and relax. Right, I've decided. When I hit 65, that's it. Time to chill out and scoff biscuits...

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