Mature drivers in the hot seat

Mature drivers are regarded as being in a low-risk group, because of their experience. Unfortunately though as people mature not only do they gain wisdom but over the years they can also pick up some bad habits, especially when behind the wheel.

It is a known fact that getting older involves many physical changes as well as changes to health and personal circumstances. All these may affect how safely people can drive.

These changes can make driving more stressful and therefore less enjoyable, it could even stop people driving because they become less confident about their ability to drive. Lack of confidence is one of the main reasons people stop driving. Our roads are changing they are becoming busier, and vehicles are larger and moving faster.

To help raise peoples' awareness of issues of driving as we age Herefordshire Council's Road Safety unit is offering a subsidised two hours practical driving session, in their own vehicle, with an approved driving instructor.

Cllr Wilcox, cabinet member for Highways and Transportation said: "The aim of the sessions is to build up drivers confidence, improve safety and reduce the risk of them being involved in a collision."

This offer is open to any person who lives in Herefordshire who is aged 70 and above and the cost to the individual is £10.

Ann Mann, Road Safety Officer for Herefordshire Council said:" We have many older drivers in the county who live in rural areas their car is their life-line. If we can help them keep their independence by offering help with their driving skills that would be wonderful".

For anyone interested, a leaflet and application form can be picked up from Age Concern offices, University Of The Third Age groups, GP practices, libraries or telephone Herefordshire Council's road safety unit on 01432 260946.