Seniors at the wheel: What driving instructor Uwe Strobel recommends!

Seniors at the wheel: What driving instructor Uwe Strobel recommends!

In Dahme-Spreewald, an exciting debate about the suitability of seniors is currently being led to driving. According to a current survey by the MAZ, the opinion is divided: a narrow majority speaks for driving bans from a certain age. But there are also strong voices that advocate such measures. The experienced driving instructor Uwe Strobel from Mittenwalde, who has been active for almost 40 years and has also been working for the ADAC, clearly stands for the individual assessment of driving ability. "The ability to run a vehicle does not depend on age, but on the person," he explains. He points out that 2024 seniors aged 65 and over were only responsible for every fifth traffic accident, which conveys a differentiated picture of older drivers. Walker the same circumstances, often a negative image of this age group is conveyed, which does not coincide with the real statistics.

If you look at the fact that seniors over the age of 65 are the most common victims in traffic accidents - both as a pedestrian and as a cyclist - this is how the complexity of the situation is recognized. The latest figures show that this age group is disproportionately represented among the injuries. However, they are not involved in car accidents. Uwe Strobel explains that uncertainties in driving behavior do not only occur in old age, but can also be found in younger drivers. In fact, concentration and eyesight can decrease with age, which requires a certain caution when driving.

the importance of self -criticism

As the ADAC emphasizes, senior citizens should self -critically check their driving ability. It is important to be aware of your own physical and cognitive restrictions. Seniors are often more at risk than at risk of road traffic, which is underlined by the statistics: 18.5 % of accidents with personal injury in 2023 were caused by over 65-year-olds-a value that is below their population of around 22 %.

In addition, over 50 % of the fatally crashed pedestrians and cyclists are 65 years or older. This illustrates the need not to lose older road users on the subject of traffic safety. The ADAC offers programs such as the "Fahr-Fitnesscheck" to help seniors to optimize their driving technology and to consider alternatives to driving in good time if health restrictions are perceived. The “Safe mobile” program, which is tailored to the needs of active road users aged 65 and over, is also particularly worth mentioning.

training as a key to security

The traffic statistics show that seniors are often involved in accidents, but rather less often due to excessive speed or alcohol. The most common driving errors lie in disregard for the right of way or mistakes when turning, turning and parking. In order to counteract this, driving safety training is particularly valuable. These training can help reduce the accident rate and strengthen the skills of older drivers by conveying both practical exercises and theoretical knowledge.

publicly is often discussed with mandatory tests to increase the traffic safety of older drivers. While some countries such as Great Britain have already taken steps in this direction, Federal Transport Minister Wissing rejects mandatory tests. In Germany there are currently no legal requirements for regular driving tests for seniors, but many experts like Ulrich Chiellino from the ADAC advise that the individual situation is important.

The fear of tests is unfounded because specially trained driving instructors support the seniors. Uwe Strobel gives the example of a 94-year-old participant who was ready to give up driving if his doctor recommended it to him. This illustrates the importance that seniors should speak openly about their ability to drive and, if necessary, consult a family doctor.

The discussion about safety in road traffic shows that it is important to find a balance between the protection of older road users and their mobility. All the more important is an open culture of conversation and the willingness to reflect on self -reflection.