logo
Older drivers warned by expert to 'stop driving' for this reason

Older drivers warned by expert to 'stop driving' for this reason

Daily Record13-05-2025

A car expert is warning elderly drivers to 'stop driving' if they are putting themselves and others at risk
Top car mechanic Scotty Kilmer has stressed that drivers who are putting people at risk should get off the road. He has issued a statement regarding elderly drivers, saying that some older individuals who are "running into things all the time" shouldn't have a licence anymore.
There is no upper age limit for older drivers in the UK, as motorists are often trusted to make their own decision when it is best for them to give up driving. However, many drivers are hesitant to give up their freedom and hand in their driving licence even if they know they are no longer safe behind the wheel, reports the Express.

Scotty made the admission when speaking on his YouTube channel where he shares important advice to road users.

Talking about a situation he had learned about he said: "The guy's daughter had to finally take the car away from him because he wasn't able to drive anymore."
"You get to a point where you've got to stop driving, I mean. One of those days I'll probably be at that stage and I'll probably be infuriated, but hey."
"If you're a danger to yourself and others and you start running into things all the time, it's time to stop driving."
Experts in elderly care, Careline365, expressed that road users should give up their licence for several different reasons.
The decision to quit for some drivers can be influenced by bad vision and poor health conditions.

However, people's reaction time should be considered when deciding if it's time to give up, with road users being urged to consider whether they are just as quick as they used to be.
Careline365 explained: "As we age, our reaction times slow down. It's important to be able to stay alert and react quickly to any hazards on the road."

"If you've noticed your reaction times are considerably slower or you're finding traffic conditions increasingly stressful, it may be time to think about stopping driving."
Motoring experts at the AA warn that reaction times tend to slow down when drivers begin to age, with road users noticing their eyesight decreasing first - which is the first sign of slow reaction time.

Experts have stressed that drivers should consider seeking medical advice if they have any "doubts" about their ability behind the wheel.
They stressed: "While there are more variables (including health conditions) that older drivers need to be aware of as they continue to drive, it's perfectly safe for them to do so."
"As long as elderly drivers have no health concerns and have a valid, renewed driving licence, there's no reason they can't continue driving a vehicle."
"If you're in doubt about your ability to drive, make sure to speak to a doctor before getting behind the wheel again."

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Drivers urged to ask for one item when buying used car shows its past
Drivers urged to ask for one item when buying used car shows its past

Daily Mirror

time17 hours ago

  • Daily Mirror

Drivers urged to ask for one item when buying used car shows its past

There are a number of things that motorists can do to make sure that they don't buy a used car with a hidden past. An automotive expert has revealed the one thing you should always ask for An automotive expert has taken to YouTube to offer a number of tips that can help drivers get behind the wheel of a solid used car. While there are plenty of bargains being offered on the used car market, motorists should always take care to make sure they do not buy a model that has a hidden past. To make sure drivers buy an honest used model, the YouTuber AutoZone published a video, urging potential buyers to always ask to see the vehicle's service history. He advised: "Don't hesitate to ask for the service records. These documents are a treasure trove of information, revealing how the well previous owner maintained their vehicle. ‌ "Frequent oil changes and timely maintenance checks are good signs of a well-cared-for car." ‌ When buying a used car, it is always a good sign if the owner has kept a record of all servicing and repair costs for the vehicle, reports the Express. These can help motorists see what issues the seller has previously had with the vehicle and will likely show if the work was done by an authorised dealer. In addition, a look through the service history records can also help a driver identify when items such as belts and tyres will need to be replaced in the future. Later in the video, AutoZone's host added that drivers should also look up the number plate on a vehicle history check website. He stressed: "Always check the vehicle history. This isn't just a suggestion, it's essential. A vehicle history report can reveal if the car has been in major accidents, faced serious maintenance issues or even if it's been recalled." While some websites offer free information such as MOT history and mileage, opting for paid services can uncover more comprehensive data. AutoZone then advised that those in the market for a pre-owned vehicle should be on the lookout for rust and generally avoid cars with extensive mileage records. He pressed on: "Steer clear of common traps with these pointers. When considering a used car, it's wise to be cautious about those with a high mileage. "While a well-travelled car might come with a tempting price tag, high mileage often signals significant wear and tear. Next on the checklist is rust. This isn't just a cosmetic issue, excessive rust can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and lead to hefty repair bills. Make sure to give the car a thorough inspection, particularly around wheel arches and under the sills."

Drivers speed more in 20mph zones than any other limits - and councils want to up restrictions
Drivers speed more in 20mph zones than any other limits - and councils want to up restrictions

Daily Mail​

timea day ago

  • Daily Mail​

Drivers speed more in 20mph zones than any other limits - and councils want to up restrictions

Drivers speed in 20mph zones more than any other limits, a massive survey of motorists has found. It comes as councils across the country continue to push for blanket 20mph restrictions across their towns and cities. The poll of more than 10,500 drivers uncovered that 44 per cent admit to breaching 20mph limits, whereas just a fifth speed in 50mph areas. It comes as Labour-ran Birmingham, which already has 20mph limits for a third of its city streets, is exploring extending the restriction to more roads, while Glasgow has announced it will introduce 20mph limits on all major street while the Scottish Government asses whether to make it a nationwide fixture. While the theory for reducing residential limits from 30mph is that it will bolster safety, the introduction of blanket 20mph zones has proven extremely unpopular in the past. Wales imposed its country-wide 20mph restriction in 2023 at the cost of £34million. However, it reversed the decision less than a year later, with some roads reverted back to 30mph following a public backlash. Campaign group '20's Plenty for Us' recently estimated that one in three Britons (around 28 million) live in local authorities with 20mph limits. Drivers speed in 20mph zones more than any other limits, a massive survey of motorists has found - as councils across the country continue to push for blanket 20mph restrictions across their towns and cities The AA's study highlights that drivers are more likely to speed in residential areas than anywhere else. Some 38 per cent of those polled said they knowingly break 30mph limits, which the motoring group said is a major concern for the safety of pedestrians and cyclists. However, when driving out of town, motorists are seemingly are more conscious of adhering to restrictions. In 40mph zones, just 24 per cent say they speed. In 50mph limits, only 21 per cent go over the restriction. And on stretches of road governed by 60mph limits, 22 per cent admit they drive faster. But on motorways, the nation's fastest-moving roads, attitude towards the speed limit is far more relaxed. More than a third (35 per cent) say they speed on 70mph stretches, which comes with greater risk of fines and penalty points given the widespread adoption of 'smart' motorways, which all have variable speed limits that can change at the drop of a hat. Motorists were also asked how much over each the speed limit they deemed is 'acceptable and safe'. In 20, 30 and 40mph zones, most drivers believed up to 4mph over was acceptable. For 50 and 60mph limits, the 'safe' margin was 5mph over, while on 70mph routes this allowance rises to 6mph. When asked why they exceeded speed limits, the most common response was 'I wasn't aware of the speed I was doing,' which was cited by more than two fifths (44 per cent). 'This was particularly common in 20mph and 30mph zones, where drivers have not adjusted to lower limits or failed to notice signage.,' the AA said. In rebuttal, motorists often argue that adhering to a 20mph restrictions in a modern car can be difficult, with just minor levels of acceleration typically resulting in exceeding the limit due to already travelling a relatively pedestrian speeds. Other excuses given by the panel of drivers included a belief that the speed limit in place is too low (33 per cent), and the road being quiet (30 per cent). Running late (4 per cent), peer pressure, and following the speed of the vehicle in front (3 per cent) were also reasons provided. There are notable differences in attitudes towards speed limits across age and gender profiles too. Somewhat unsurprisingly, men are significantly more likely to admit to speeding than women (47 per cent versus 38 per cent respectively), and it's the youngest motorists on the road (18 to 34 year olds) who are statistically most likely to speed on residential streets. Over 65s are least likely to go over the limit in any zone, the report found. More education and increased policing in 20mph zones Road casualty statistics show that speeding is the biggest factor in traffic deaths and injuries. In 2023, more than half (56 per cent) of fatal collisions were linked to one of three speed-related factors: exceeding the speed limit; driving too fast for conditions; and driving aggressively, dangerously or recklessly. It means 809 of the 1,441 fatal collisions on Britain's roads two years ago were caused due to motorists travelling too fast. The AA concluded from its findings that more enforcement is required on roads, especially where the speed limit is lower. It called for 1,000 more traffic officers to help improve safety and catch offenders in the act. However, it also said improvements could be made to driver education, explaining in greater detail to new motorists and those sitting speed awareness courses the rationale behind lower limits, which some often misunderstand or see as excessive. Edmund King, AA president, said: 'We can't afford to be complacent as speed kills. Every mile per hour over the limit matters and these figures are a wake-up call. Speed limits aren't optional – they're lifesavers. 'Whether it's a school run or on a quiet residential street, the difference between 20 and 30mph can be the difference between life and death. 'While many drivers don't speed maliciously, these findings show many are distracted, unaware of their surroundings, or simply not paying attention. 'That's why we need better driver attention, improved signage, clearer road markings, and smarter enforcement.' List of 20mph highway authorities in the UK Here is a list from 20's Plenty For Us of what it described as '20mph highway authorities' across the UK - Local Authorities which accept 20mph as the right speed limit where people live, work or play. County councils Cambridgeshire Lancashire Oxfordshire Unitary authorities Bath and North East Somerset Brighton and Hove Bristol, City of Cheshire West and Chester Cornwall Darlington East Riding of Yorkshire Herefordshire, County of Kingston upon Hull, City of Leicester Middlesbrough Luton Nottingham Portsmouth Southampton Southend-on-Sea Warrington York Metropolitan districts Birmingham Bolton Bradford Bury Calderdale Coventry Doncaster Leeds Liverpool Manchester Newcastle-upon-Tyne Rochdale Sefton Sheffield South Tyneside St Helens Stockport Wigan Wirral London boroughs Camden City of London Croydon Ealing Hackney Hammersmith & Fulham Haringey Hounslow Islington Kensington & Chelsea Kingston Lambeth Lewisham Mitcham Newham Richmond Southwark Tower Hamlets Waltham Forest Wandsworth Westminster Scottish authorities Clackmannanshire Edinburgh Fife Glasgow Highland Scottish Borders West Dunbartonshire Countries Wales

Warning issued to drivers with 'stop-start' technology in cars
Warning issued to drivers with 'stop-start' technology in cars

Daily Record

time4 days ago

  • Daily Record

Warning issued to drivers with 'stop-start' technology in cars

Pressing the simple button can help save drivers money. Motorists who have a start and stop button in their vehicles are being urged to use it wisely to save them money on their fuel bills. Experts believe drivers can cut their fuel consumption by pressing the simple button in their cars. Driving professionals at the AA said: 'Yes, start-stop technology can save you fuel, especially in stop-and-go traffic. By shutting off the engine when it's not needed, you use less fuel over time. ‌ 'The added bonus here is that you'll save money in the long run, because you won't need to top up at a petrol station as often. There's a common worry that frequent starting and stopping can harm the engine. ‌ 'However, Stop-start systems are designed to prevent engine damage by using reinforced starter motors and batteries that can handle frequent restarts. These systems ensure that the engine only stops and starts under optimal conditions, reducing wear and tear on engine components and maintaining durability.' According to research from the American Automobile Association found that stop-start technology resulted in a 5 to 7 percent improvement in fuel economy, reports Birmingham Live. Dispelling myths, the RAC added: "If you're stuck in traffic for a minute and your engine switches off, the lubricants will not cool down to damaging levels. "If you find yourself stationary for a longer period of time, the system is designed to start the engine automatically before lubricant temperatures drop too dramatically. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. ‌ "Another feature that protects your engine, prevents oil from returning to the oil pan. As a result, engines restart with a significant amount of fluid in the engine chamber." Stop-start tech is just one of the more modern features of newer cars, and is known as driver assistance technology. A 2023 survey found that more than 60 per cent of drivers with push-button start systems had no idea their car had a hidden emergency start feature. ‌ That means millions of people could be unnecessarily calling for roadside assistance or locksmiths when they could start their car themselves. Fob batteries can drain faster than expected, especially in extreme temperatures or if buttons are accidentally pressed while in a bag or pocket. Knowing how to locate and use the emergency start feature could save you time, money, and stress. The location of this feature varies by manufacturer, but in most modern vehicles, you'll find it in one of these places: On the start/stop button itself. Some cars have a built-in RFID reader that still recognises the fob when it's pressed directly against the button. Inside the centre console or armrest. A small slot or pad designed to detect your fob, even if its battery is drained. Near the steering column. Some models have an emergency key fob reader positioned under or beside the steering wheel. In the glovebox or under the cupholder. A discreet sensor designed for backup ignition.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store