Are Older Drivers Still Safe on the Road?
Age alone doesn’t determine driving ability, but it can affect vision, reflexes, and attention—making senior road safety an important topic.
Driving After 75: A Growing Concern
A recent accident in La Rochelle, involving an 83-year-old driver going the wrong way and injuring children on bicycles, has renewed debate over how long seniors should drive.
What the Data Says
According to France’s Road Safety Authority, drivers over 75 are involved in as many accidents as those aged 18–24. Yet in France, a B driving license is valid for life, unlike in countries such as Italy or Germany, which require health checks after age 70 or 75.
Better Solutions Than Age Limits
Rather than strict age cutoffs, safer options include voluntary medical driving checks, refresher driving courses for seniors, switching to automatic cars, and daytime-only driving.
Support Over Blame
With experience, education, and the right support, older drivers can stay safe while keeping their independence.
