New research reveals that 80% of motorists support the idea of voluntary driving assessments for those over 60.

The October edition of the Startline Used Car Tracker highlights significant backing for standardized assessments aimed at mature drivers.

This proposal has received endorsements from organisations like the Road Safety Trust and the Older Driver Task Force.

Helping hands

This new study found that over half of respondents (59%) believe these tests would help drivers evaluate their ongoing road safety.

Nearly half (47%) would be willing to take such an assessment themselves.

Additionally, 38% of participants think that the assessments could help reduce insurance costs for older drivers.

Furthermore, 36% feel that the tests are increasingly relevant as more older people continue to drive.

Don’t need it

However, opinions are mixed, with 33% of respondents suggesting that older drivers should not be on the road at all.

Meanwhile, 22% expressed concerns that those needing the assessment most might avoid taking it.

This was underlined by 9% saying they would never take such a test themselves, and 7% believe older drivers should simply continue without needing evaluations.

Good idea

“Mature driver assessments are a promising approach to enhancing road safety, and our research shows considerable public support for their introduction,” says Paul Burgess, CEO at Startline Motor Finance.

“These assessments would be entirely voluntary and carry no legal consequences, serving instead as a tool to help older drivers make informed decisions about their road safety, including whether to continue driving.

“As people age, they often experience issues that can affect their driving abilities, such as slower reaction times, diminished vision, and hearing loss. These assessments could help identify the extent of those risks.”