Fact: grey drivers are the safest ...

03/06/2008

New figures from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) may dispel the myth that older drivers are more dangerous than other drivers once and for all. In fact, drivers over the age of seventy are significantly safer than those under thirty -  and no greater risk to other road users than middle-aged drivers.

 

IAM Motoring Facts 2008 shows that as car drivers grow older they become less of a risk to other road users and are less likely to be injured in road accidents themselves. However, any injuries they do sustain are likely to be more severe due to age-related frailty. Even more significant is the fact that, despite an increase of 50% of those over seventy holding a licence since 1988, these drivers are responsible for just six per cent of pedestrian deaths. Male drivers under thirty are most likely to be in a fatal collision with a pedestrian - and are also responsible for 30 per cent of such deaths.

 

Neil Greig, Director of the IAM Motoring Trust, said: "Older drivers are often criticised for poor driving standards and for being a danger on our roads. These statistics explode that myth. Older drivers have a wealth of motoring experience and knowledge, and the vast majority self-regulate the extent of driving in relation to their ability."

 

The IAM Motoring Facts 2008 also revealed a stark variation in road safety expenditure between regions, with the highest spending region allocating over two and a half times the budget per kilometre of road than the lowest spending region. South West England spends just £273 on road safety per kilometre of road compared to the £722 spend per kilometre in the North West.

 

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