Question

Should states consider mandatory testing of drivers at age 75? Why or why not? Be thorough and provide support for your answer.

Answer 1

Yes. Elderly people above the age of 75 definitely need to be tested before they are handed off a vehicle to drive. This opinion of mine does not arise from the stereotypical notion that aged people cannot handle a vehicle. I do believe they can, but a test to verify their driving skills does no harm. Elderly people can be considered good drivers because of their expertise, but not all elderly people will have the same health conditions. Some may be fit even at 80, but some may experience a difference in their motor abilities at the age of 65 itself. As people age, their flexibility, stamina, vision, hearing, responsiveness, and coordination skills begin to deteriorate. All these are very important to be able to drive for short/long distance and during the day/night. So, a test of any form, a simple vision test or an elaborate health check up to determine the physical and mental stability of a person before he or she drives is imperative to ensure the safety of the person driving as well as the safety of the people on the road.