INDEPENDENT NEWS

AA Endorses Licensing Changes For Elderly

Published: Tue 11 Jun 2002 10:19 AM
June 10 2002
Proposed changes to licensing for older drivers are being welcomed by the Automobile Association.
“We have been saying for some time that a conditional licence that allows older drivers to remain mobile in residential areas but not exposing them to the risks and pressures of open road driving is essential,” says AA Public Affairs Director George Fairbairn.
Mr Fairbairn said the existing system for re-licensing of elderly drivers had proved a significant hurdle for many elderly drivers who do not want to drive on the open road. By making the licence conditional in the manner now proposed older drivers did not need to lose mobility altogether simply because they could no longer cope with highway driving.
LTSA travel surveys show that half of all trips undertaken by drivers over 65 are for social purposes. Losing a licence can therefore have enormous social and mental health consequences for older people.
Mr Fairbairn was also positive about the proposed option of being able to book practical driving tests over the phone.
“It does seem somewhat unnecessary in this day and age that you have to show up to a counter to book a test when you should be able to just call and make a time and confirm payment by credit card as is now proposed” he said.
It is recognised that the required amendments to this Rule will not be implemented for some months.
Ends

Next in New Zealand politics

Concerns Conveyed To China Over Cyber Activity
By: New Zealand Government
Parliamentary Network Breached By The PRC
By: New Zealand Government
GDP Decline Reinforces Government’s Fiscal Plan
By: New Zealand Government
Tax Cuts Now Even More Irresponsible
By: New Zealand Labour Party
New Zealand Provides Further Humanitarian Support To Gaza And The West Bank
By: New Zealand Government
High Court Judge Appointed
By: New Zealand Government
View as: DESKTOP | MOBILE © Scoop Media