Number of Older Drivers in UK to Dramatically Increase

An opportunity for tyre outlets offering a mobile fitting and repair service beckons. According to Elizabeth Dainton, research development manager for the Royal Automobile Club Foundation, car use contributes significantly to wellbeing in old age, and the number of older drivers on our roads is set to mushroom during the next decade.

The UK has an ageing population that is typically more active and mobile than previous generations, explains Ms Dainton, and while currently almost half of those aged 70 or older hold a valid driving licence, by 2015 the number of male drivers over 80 is expected to double and there will be 3.4 times as many female drivers over 80 on the road. The research development manager made no comment into the tyre changing competence of this expanding age bracket, however it can be safely assumed that demand for such professional services will also increase accordingly.

Accident rates increase with old age, Ms Dainton admitted. They do not, however, reach the levels seen amongst novice drivers. Accidents amongst older drivers, she says, are typically a result of physical and cognitive impairments, which she believes makes driving licence retesting based upon age “unsuitable and unjust.” Instead Ms Dainton proposes a ream of changes to make our roads more senior-friendly, including large print road-signs, designated older people parking spaces, “reduced glare” road markings and tailored driver training schemes.