Elder Drivers

Driving in today's society is dangerous and heavily unregulated, but it includes an increased risks for many elders. Overall, the driving requirements for individuals are not up to par because recent health diagnoses and regular testing are not taken into consideration. When I was taking my driver education course in high school I was permitted to waive the driving test because I got an A in the class. While this seemed beneficial during the time I received it, knowing that so many drivers may not be tested is a scary thought. Elders in Florida should be required to take a test deeming them eligible to drive, especially if they have chronic illnesses that might further limit their driving abilities. The test should be fair and a impartial individual, who would not discriminate solely on age, should administer the testing. If a person fails the test they should be given the opportunity to receive continuing education to improve their driving if it would prove effective based on their health/physiological condition. For the most part, the need for a driving test is not based solely on their age but the combination of chronic illnesses associated with age that might cause increased accident risks. If I had a say in the way driving regulations get determined, I would have any person with a severe illness that impairs driving receive testing as well. The same way a person who has a seizure can not drive for a determined amount of time, I think other people with diseases that can severely alter driving abilities get the same treatment. When I reach a certain age and can no longer react or see properly there would be no question in my mind: I would stop driving. It might seem unfair to have a person take a test based on their age, but many leisure and professional activities in the United States have age requirements for a number of reasons. Hopefully with further research and continuing driver education programs, an age-based driving tested wont be need until greater age ranges like 85-90.