Should the elderly be allowed to drive?

[Cyclone42]

Interesting article about this on the OWH site.

Omaha.com Metro/Region Section

I actually have no problem with elderly people being allowed to drive. The article mentions that elderly drivers have lower accident rates in Nebraska than teens. I suggest a compromise: continue to allow elderly drivers, but require all drivers to take a driving test every 5 years starting at age 67 or so.

(Actually, if it was up to me, I'd require all drivers to take a driving test every 5 years, period. My brother is only 42 and can't drive worth a **** :biglaugh:. But I realize that would never sell)

 

[LindenCy]

In Illinois I think everyone over age 70 has to take an eye test and driving exam every so many years.

 

[ericlambi]

I like the idea of making elderly people take a driving test

 

[Broodwich]

That's a very complex question, but in a word,

No.

 

[LindenCy]

I like the idea of making it tougher to pass in the first place. There are horrible drivers all over the place.

I am surprised that wherever you guys are (I assume Iowa) they don't already have a law about retaking the test as you are older.

 

[keepngoal]

I am in favor of more "driving tests" than written tests for the whole lot of ya. Every 5 years, you get in a car with an instructor. You have two fails available in your lifetime before you lose your license for a time period... lets say 2 years. After each fail, you have two weeks to make it up and pass (and not on the same day), otherwise, its 2 years.

Also, you must be 18 AND graduated from high school before you can have a license. School permits are still allowed. Otherwise, it is 19 and a GED. Same thing for alcohol sales.

-keep.

 

[NobodyBeatsCy]

Why not - we let idiot 16 year olds drive. I'd say they each have the same ability. Actually the elderly typically drive slower - creating less damage

 

[LindenCy]

Personally I have no problem with older people driving, and many of them who are on the road are great drivers. I would like to see more strictness in the general giving out of licences. Everyone thinks it is their right to drive, but if you suck at it, you are putting everyone in danger.

And for the environmentalists, if you have less people driving you could have less emissions.

 

[Cyclonepride]

Personally I have no problem with older people driving, and many of them who are on the road are great drivers. I would like to see more strictness in the general giving out of licences. Everyone thinks it is their right to drive, but if you suck at it, you are putting everyone in danger.

And for the environmentalists, if you have less people driving you could have less emissions.

Perfect solution........no licenses for environmentalists. I love it!:yes:

 

[EggMcClone]

Hey, I guess they're right. The elderly, while slow and dangerous behind the wheel, can still serve a purpose.

 

[LindenCy]

Perfect solution........no licenses for environmentalists. I love it!:yes:

That would be making them practice what they preach. :wink: