More reports to the DVLA raise concerns about older drivers

The BBC has reported a huge increase in calls to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) about someone’s fitness to drive.

In 2022, 48,754 concerns over a person’s fitness to drive were submitted to the DVLA – up 82% from 26,716.

During the first quarter of 2023, the agency had already received 11,548 notifications. These include self-declarations, those by medical officials and notifications from a concerned third party.

Are older drivers at increased risk?

Bringing up the idea of giving up driving to an older loved one can be extremely sensitive, especially when the person doesn’t believe it’s necessary to hang up the keys just yet.

“As we get older, our reaction time slows down. But we tend to make up for that, because we have greater experience. Most of us will get to the point where actually it is time for us to hang up the keys. But judging that is quite hard.”

Caroline Abrahams, Charity Director of Age UK

There’s a bias against older drivers because they’re generally believed to be more dangerous behind the wheel. However, the figures to back that up are shaky.

Department for Transport (DfT) data does show increased casualty rates for older drivers but this is likely due to higher vulnerability to injury. They’re not involved in more collisions; they’re more likely to be hurt in them.¹ But that’s reason enough for older drivers to look for more support.

Connected insurance could extend older drivers’ independence

Insurance for older drivers can become very expensive, and many insurers don’t offer policies to those over 70. Ticker will be introducing a telematics product specifically designed for over-70s in the near future.

Connected insurance offers a tool for older drivers to track their driving themselves, and make the decision about when it’s time to stop driving with the help of the data. As they enter the phase of needing to renew their licence every three years, older drivers and their families may find confidence in knowing they’re still driving safely.

With a connected policy, the data is there to help the individual decide – and hopefully avoid the worst-case scenario of a crash happening or someone making a report to the DVLA.

“One of Ticker’s strengths is spotting the groups of people who’ll most benefit from connected insurance. Drivers over 70 tick all of the boxes: higher risk of injury on the road, increasing insurance costs, and a bit of worry for them and their families as time goes on. There’s a real need for a product designed to address these issues for over-70s.”

Richard King, Founder & CEO, Ticker

 

¹European Commission, Road Safety

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