Are elderly drivers really a hazard? Or does their experience make them safer drivers? When should a caregiver think about pulling the keys?
Researchers from Australian National University set out to examine the effect of aging on driving performance by having elderly subjects take a 12-mile on-road driving test. The participants were monitored by a literal "back seat driver" who noted the number of so-called ‘critical mistakes' made, including tailgating, neglecting to check blind spots and speeding.
The results: Those who were between the ages of 70 and 74 only made one serious driving error, while those 85 or older made an average of four mistakes.