The Government's plans for older drivers smack of London-centrism

Telegraph

2 days ago

SIR – I accept that the laws governing the right to hold a driving licence require scrutiny ('Over-70s who fail mandatory driving tests to be banned', report, August 11), but the Government must consider carefully how changes could affect many people.
Politicians tend to struggle to see beyond the M25. While they spend most of their time living and working in a place where they can jump on a bus or the Tube, or summon a taxi at any time, those outside London or one of the major conurbations often have none of these things. Driving is a necessity rather than a luxury.
I hope that any new legislation will be accompanied by substantial investment in public transport for the regions, reversing the cuts of recent years and preventing further isolation, particularly among the elderly.
Mike Bussell
Yeovil, Somerset
SIR – When I passed my driving test in 1966 I thought I was a brilliant driver. Fifty-nine years later my view is the same. However, it does not seem unreasonable that the authorities could now be the judge of that.
Simon Cook
Sutton, Surrey
SIR – I appreciate the concern about older drivers and their eyesight, but do not understand why there isn't a compulsory annual test for over-70s.
I would also recommend a yearly test for all drivers under 25, and a five-yearly test for everyone else.
Susan Eccles
Tunbridge Wells, Kent
SIR – Am I being cynical in thinking that the Government is considering going after older drivers and not younger ones because the younger ones are far more likely to be potential Labour voters?
For the record, I am 79, have 20:20 vision and at the last election didn't vote for any of them.
John Newbury
Warminster, Wiltshire
SIR – I have my eyesight tested regularly and always wear the appropriate glasses. I therefore support mandatory tests. However, my late uncle failed his eyesight test while in his 20s. It should be understood that eye health deterioration often occurs much earlier in life than 70.
Jim Sokol
Minehead, Somerset
SIR – It's not the vision of older drivers that's the real problem – it's the lack of indicator use, especially approaching roundabouts.
Tina Ramsden
Bramhall, Cheshire
SIR – If there are to be new driving regulations, the opportunity should be taken to ban blinding headlights and barely visible indicator lights.
Numerous surveys have shown that LED headlights are a danger to drivers of all ages, especially on country roads.
A V Lofts
Salcombe, Devon