Although the Japanese government is encouraging older drivers to hang up their keys to keep the roads safer, a new British study finds that older drivers could be among the safest age group on the road. In fact, the study finds that drivers over 70 are actually safer drivers than those under 30.
According to the study — which was conducted by the UK’s Institute of Advanced Motorists — drivers over the age of 70 are just as safe as their middle-aged counterparts. The study also found that older drivers are less likely to injure themselves and others drivers in accidents.
While this may seem to go against logic, the study says that an older drivers’ experience actually keeps them safe behind the wheel. “Older drivers have a wealth of motoring experience and knowledge and the vast majority self-regulate their driving in relation to their ability,” Neil Greig, director of the IAM Motoring Trust, told WhatCar.
Despite the test’s findings, the British government is currently considering compulsory eyesight and driving ability tests for drivers over the age of 75.
