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Mature Drivers

Driving is more complex and demanding than it used to be. There's considerably more traffic on the road and motorists have to process more and more information as they drive.

Many older motorists bring a wealth of experience, confidence and tolerance to their driving, all of which contributes to making them safer on the road than other age groups. However, as you grow older the ability to interpret the movements and intentions of other drivers and react to situations gradually changes. Sight, hearing and judgement of speed may not be quite as sharp as they were when you were younger.

Stiffening joints may make it more difficult to turn your head to check blind spots or keep a check on vehicles either side of you. These changes occur so gradually that you may not realise they're happening. After all we can all get a bit rusty.

While it's true that older drivers should be less likely to have an accident due to making fewer and shorter journeys and often travelling in daylight or on familiar routes, research has revealed that there is a slow but steady increase in the number of motoring accidents when reaching middle age.

• Reduce your stress levels - if you are retired you could travel outside peak times.
• Travelling makes us tired, this can lead to accidents.
• Pamper yourself by taking frequent breaks during your journey.
• Check with your doctor or chemist about the effects of any medicines prescribed or purchased. They could affect your driving.
• Plan your route in advance so that you can cope better with the journey ahead.
• Take extra care at night or in bad weather. Try to avoid these times if possible.

By taking care and adjusting your driving habits to compensate for any deterioration in your eyesight and judgement, you can continue to drive safely and confidently.