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Voluntary feedback drives help older adults stay safer on the road

Age shouldn’t mean giving up the keys. A new initiative lets seniors test their skills behind the wheel—with expert advice, not restrictions. Would you trust a 45-minute drive to keep you safer for years?

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2 min read
This is a presentation and here we can see vehicles on the road and we can see some text written.
This is a presentation and here we can see vehicles on the road and we can see some text written.

Driving in Old Age - Practical Checks for More Safety? - Voluntary feedback drives help older adults stay safer on the road

Driving safety among older adults remains a sensitive issue, particularly in regions like Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. While many seniors rely on cars to stay independent, concerns grow as accident risks rise with age. Now, local organisations are promoting voluntary 'feedback drives' to help older motorists stay safe behind the wheel for longer.

Research shows that drivers aged 75 and over face a higher risk of accidents, following what experts call a 'bathtub curve' pattern. Although seniors generally cause fewer crashes, their involvement in accidents leading to injuries increases when accounting for distance driven. Factors like slower reaction times, weaker concentration, and reduced attention play a role in these risks.

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, cars are essential for many older residents, offering freedom and access to daily activities. However, few voluntarily give up their licences, even as concerns about safety grow. To address this, the German Insurance Association, along with local groups like the Verkehrsclub Deutschland (VCD), ADAC, and the Landeszentrale für Verkehr (LZV), now recommend feedback drives for those aged 75 and above.

These sessions involve a 45-minute drive in the participant’s own vehicle, followed by professional feedback and tailored advice. The aim is not to restrict older drivers but to help them recognise and adjust to changes in their abilities. Organised in partnership with TÜV and DEKRA, the drives focus on refreshing skills rather than enforcing restrictions. Local authorities also stress that age alone should not label someone as a high-risk driver.

The feedback drives provide a practical way for older drivers to assess their skills without pressure. By identifying areas for improvement, the programme supports safer driving habits while preserving mobility. For now, participation remains voluntary, leaving the decision to continue driving in the hands of each individual.

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