Refresher courses recommended to older drivers

Date: 30/6/2010

Drivers have been encouraged to refresh their skills as they get older.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) said road safety would be improved if older drivers took courses to improve their performance behind the wheel.

Director of Policy and Research Neil Greig explained the organisation does not believe in mandatory retesting or medical tests for older drivers, as it does not want safe motorists to be encouraged to stop too soon.

But he noted that a refresher course, such as the IAM's Drive Check 55 programme, could help older people stay safe and retain their independence for longer.

He said older drivers are most likely to have accidents when on roundabouts and slip roads in high-speed areas.

Mr Greig recently spoke about a drive by police forces to reduce accidents by raising awareness of the dangers of country roads.

He also observed that newer, safer cars are helping to bring down deaths and serious injuries on British roads.

Posted by Sarah Bailey