Is There An Upper Age Limit To Driving?

For many seniors, being able to drive is key to maintaining their independence as they grow older. However, as we age, our ability to drive safely also diminishes. 

In this article, we’ll examine what affects our ability to drive as we age and whether there is an upper age limit to driving.

Read More: Safety Tips for Older Drivers

How Does Age Affect Your Driving?

Statistics from Helpguuide.org show that older adult drivers are more likely to receive traffic citations and get into accidents than younger drivers. This is generally not caused by recklessness but by factors such as decreased vision, impaired hearing, slowed motor reflexes, and worsening health conditions.

Older drivers may also suffer from the following:

• Neck pain or stiffness can make it harder to look over your shoulder.
• Leg pain can make moving your foot from the gas to the brake pedal difficult.
• Diminished arm strength can make it hard to turn the steering wheel quickly and effectively.
• Your reaction times can slow down with age.
• You can lose the ability to divide your attention between multiple activities effectively.

What Are The Warning Signs Of Unsafe Driving?

Unsafe driving caused by aging doesn’t happen overnight; it tends to happen gradually and can be exacerbated by a change in health. 

However, there are some warning signs of unsafe driving that you can watch for:

• Frequent close calls (i.e., almost crashing), dents and scrapes on the car or fences, mailboxes, garage doors, and curbs.
• Increased citations, traffic tickets, or “warnings” by traffic or law enforcement officers.
• The trouble with the fundamentals of driving is making sudden lane changes, drifting into other lanes, and braking or accelerating suddenly without reason. Other examples include failing to use the turn signal or keeping the signal on without changing lanes.
• Eyesight problems include not seeing traffic lights and street signs or driving closer to them to see them.
• Hearing problems include not hearing emergency sirens or honking horns.
• Problems with memory include missing exits that used to be second nature or getting lost frequently. While everyone has occasional lapses, if there’s an increasing pattern, it’s time to get evaluated by a doctor.
• Problems with reflexes and range of motion include not reacting quickly enough if there’s a need to brake suddenly or quickly look back, confusing the gas and brake pedals, being flustered while driving, or being quick to anger when behind the wheel.

Giving Up The Keys

While there isn’t a set upper limit on your ability to drive, there might come a time when mounting evidence suggests that it’s time to give up the keys. While this can come as a blow to your self-esteem, there are some benefits to not driving. 

Public transport has never been more accessible and is generally cheaper than car ownership. Walking is another alternative that can improve your health and stave off the negative effects of aging. 

Learn Safe Driving At Any Age With Northwest Driving School

While there is no specific age limit for driving, aging can impact your driving skills. At Northwest Driving School, we believe in empowering drivers of all ages with the knowledge and skills needed for safe driving. Our courses, tailored for every stage of life, ensure you’re road-ready and confident behind the wheel.

Our experienced instructors, safety-approved vehicles, and comprehensive classes are designed for success. 98% of our students pass on their first try. Call us at (702) 212-5667 and let us guide you towards maintaining your driving independence safely and confidently.