by Bruce Campbell

Created on: October 14, 2009

Back in 2003 an 86 year old man drove his Buick through a crowded farmers market. Nine people were killed, including a 3 year old girl. More than 54 people were hurt, 14 with critical injuries. When he finally stopped, the 86 year old man got out his car and screamed at people to get out of the way. No alcohol or drugs were found in his system. Apparently, he was just old and confused.

This was a horrifying incident, but it is also not an isolated one. There are many, many examples of elderly drivers driving into swimming pools, houses, storefronts, or worse. In fact, only young teenage drivers have a greater number of accidents.

In our teenage years we all hear "driving is not a right, it's a privilege." That is still true, and there comes an age when driving is no longer a privilege that can be allowed. Yes, the driving extremely slow with the blinker on thing is annoying. But after a certain age, reflexes, eye sight, and dementia are very serious concerns. Undoubtedly, these age-related impairments affect some older adults driving ability. By the time a person is between 85-90 years old, his or her driving privileges should be examined.

One option is to start with a curfew. Anyone over the age of 85 should not be driving after sundown, because driving conditions are not as safe as daylight hours. Remember, this is not their rights that are being taking away, driving is a privilege.

Another option that may allow older drivers to continue driving could be new technology. Perhaps there could be a short test taken before a car can start. Maybe a voice warning system that alerts drivers to busy streets and approaching stop lights.

Licensing laws vary greatly from state to state, and it's time for a National law on the age limit for driving. The motivation for this law is safety. The thought of a demented octogenarian with failing eyesight barreling down the road in a two ton piece of metal is unsettling to us all, nation-wide. There are federal laws against driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Shouldn't some prescription drugs also be included? The average 85 year old is undoubtedly taking at least one or two prescription drugs daily. Driving impaired is not only challenging for the 85 year old, it's dangerous for the rest of us.

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