Statistics show that drivers born before World War II are among the safest on the road. That said, DVLA records show that there are three people aged 100 still driving despite having committed a traffic offence recently. They probably have never taken a driving test, as tests were not introduced until 1935.

The law as it stands require a renewal of the driving licence when drivers reach the age of 70. After that renewals are required every three years. Doctors are required to inform the DVLA if they believe a patient of theirs should not be driving. A medical examination is not required.

To conform to a freedom of information request the DVLA published records last December which revealed that there are 2,593 drivers aged 90 and over still driving with penalty points on their licence. Although details of these penalty points are not available, it raises the question whether or not there should be an age limit for motorists to have a licence

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Some groups have called for measures to be introduced relating to older motorists. There should be a “reduced” licence, which allows elderly drivers to drive, but not on motorways and some carriageways with fast traffic, suggests the Institute of Advanced Motorists. Other suggestions are traffic signs with larger letters/numbers for the elderly.

“I think it is really important to consider some kind of driving assessment for older drivers involved in crashes or incidents resulting in penalty points.” said Robert Gifford, Executive Director of the Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety.

What do you think?