80-plus drivers and safety

Posted September 09, 2024 4:00 am

As a soon to be 69-year-old senior, I am sick of hearing/reading 80-plus year-olds complain about taking necessary yearly drivers tests for the safety of themselves and others.

While I certainly believe the “safety” statistics they so gleefully point out, it’s the damage they leave in their wake which is why the additional tests are necessary.

Damage caused by: driving too slow, slow reaction time, driving in the wrong lane, turning from the wrong lane, drifting into the wrong lane, not using turn signals, not turning their heads to see who’s around them, etc.

Simply stated, 80-plus seniors are not in accidents, but cause plenty. I further submit that once seniors turn 85, they should only be allowed to drive during daylight hours or in cases of emergency. When 90, they should be required to give up their keys. I know I don’t want my grandkids on the streets or sidewalks near 90-year-old drivers.

Bruce Parker

Arlington Heights

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