Keep pressing against seniors road tests

Recently two Daily Herald subscribers contributed Letters to the Editor questioning the road test requirement for drivers over 87. I have also questioned this requirement as this cohort is the safest among all age groups. Several times, I have asked the Secretary of State’s Office for the data that validates this requirement. None was forthcoming.

One common thought is that the state will take a license rather than those close to the older driver. Older drivers in my acquaintance who relinquish the keys, do so voluntarily, or perhaps at family’s urging. In very rare cases does the state hold out its hand for keys.

Do we need to start petitions to abolish this requirement or protest outside DVM facilities? The visual of groups of us, the able-bodied and some with walkers, canes, even portable oxygen tanks, has comic appeal — of course, some younger drivers have many of these same health aides. Reality is that we older drivers are honoring our independence as we keep medical appointments, grocery shop, get to exercise classes, frequent the library and other errands.

The current secretary has established some necessary improvements in the agency. How about recognizing older drivers’ skills, free up DMV staff for more pressing duties and remove one more chore for older drivers, just like the 49 other states?

Julie Sass

Elk Grove Village