Roadshow event to help Falkirk's older drivers stay safe behind the wheel
The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland have launched their Fitness to Drive campaign aimed at drivers aged 60 and over.
The Fitness to Drive national roadshow, which parks up at the Howgate Shopping Centre on from 10am to 4pm on Wednesday, October 28 and Thursday, October 29, hopes to get older drivers to reflect on their driving and take simple, practical steps to stay safe and confident on the road.
The event, which also takes place at the Klondyke Garden Centre, Polmont on from 10am to 4pm on Friday, October 30, Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, allows drivers
over 60 to drop in for a free driver “MOT” – a session to help them recognise any changes in the way they drive and explore practical steps they can take to continue
driving safely for longer.
Transport Scotland statistics show an increasing trend in the number of road casualties involving drivers aged 60 and over, the driver MOT roadshow aims to help people understand ways they can overcome age-related challenges, such as changes to eyesight, hearing and reaction times.
The roadshow will share tips for addressing these changes, which may include booking regular eye examinations, reducing night-time driving, avoiding busy junctions at peak hours, and/or refreshing skills with a driving review.
Fear of having to give up driving can often stop people from addressing these changes but the Fitness to Drive initiative looks to equip older drivers with the knowledge and understanding they need to help stay safe behind the wheel for longer.
Friends and family members of drivers aged 60 or over are also encouraged to attend for advice on opening up supportive, sensitive conversations about driving.
Scottish Cabinet secretary for transport Stephen Flynn said: “The Fitness to Drive campaign is designed to support older drivers to recognise any changes that come
with age – whether that’s to eyesight or hearing – and encouraging them to take action to ensure they continue driving safely and confidently.
“Change doesn’t always have to mean hanging up the keys and, by helping older drivers and their families ensure their driving fitness, we can help make people more confident and safer when they travel which, in turn, can help stop collisions and save lives.”