Autumn and winter could be ‘more dangerous’ for elderly drivers

There has been plenty of debate surrounding elderly drivers and their ability to drive safely. Motorists and experts are fairly divided with some saying that age is not the biggest factor when it comes to safe driving. Others, however, disagree and argue that a maximum driving age should be introduced.Dorry Potter, car and scrappage expert for National Scrap Car, stressed that there is no need to introduce a maximum driving age, but autumn and winter could be “more dangerous” for drivers over a certain age.She told Express.co.uk: “As we age our reflexes slow and our eyesight typically starts to get worse, meaning during the seasons of rain, snow, fog and dark days it can mean driving is more dangerous for elderly drivers- due to decreased visibility and less grip on the roads.”A maximum age limit is not necessary if elderly drivers can prove they are still safe on the roads.”Ms Potter added: “There are currently controls in place for the elderly whereby changes to eyesight or reactions are assessed by doctors and driver’s licences can be revoked on medical grounds.READ MORE: Electric car owners warned about towing trailers and caravans Autumn and winter could be ‘more dangerous’ for elderly drivers. (Image: Getty)”So instead of enforcing a maximum age, elderly drivers should just ensure they attend regular checks with their doctor to keep them safe on the road.”Earlier this year Express.co.uk reported that there were more than 134,000 drivers over the age of 90 on the UK roads.And with the new figures continually increasing, motorists have started to wonder about road safety with calls for a maximum driving age to be introduced.According to official Government figures, there are 5.6 million elderly drivers on British roads.DON’T MISS Car insurance policies could be invalidated by window issues [INSIGHT] Electric car owners warned of major range issues [WARNING] Motorists could face £5,000 fines for breaking ‘surprising’ laws [FINE]  There will be more than one million drivers over the age of 85 by 2025. (Image: Getty) Top 10 most dangerous places to drive in the UK. (Image: EXPRESS)”Maybe a basic observation of vehicle handling by an accredited driving instructor could satisfy the blame shifters. After all what group causes most accidents? Thanks.’Under the current law, once a driver reaches the age of 70 years old, they must renew their driving licence every three years.They can use the DVLA’s service to renew their driving licence if they are 70 or over, or if they will be 70 in the next 90 days.The DVLA will automatically send drivers a D46P application form 90 days before their 70th birthday, allowing drivers to renew.