As the number of elders increases dramatically in the next few years, there are questions all elders, and local governments and communities, need to consider: Should a different kind of testing be required for elder drivers? If so, at what frequency? Should there be a standard cutoff age for driving in later years as we have for teenage beginning drivers? Are there medical conditions that should automatically require revocation of driving privileges? Should there be an age at which license renewal by mail is no longer allowed?In the comments, I posed the argument that age should not be the single factor, nor should there be a single factor in determining a license.
I would further propose that the license be granted upon successful completion of the following for anyone and everyone who seeks to obtain a license:
1 - financial wherewithal; proof of ownership of said auto and proof of insurance
2 - basic driving skill; annual written & driving test up to 21, bi-annual written & driving test to 55, and a return to an annual written & driving test thereafter
3 - validation of physical fitness to be capable of driving (with legitimate exceptions for handicap individuals in vehicles with adjustments for their handicaps)
What do you think?
Technorati Tags : license, auto, youth, elders, MA
