Older Drivers

Are you concerned about an older driver? While most older Virginians are safe drivers, there are a few who continue to drive when they are at-risk. For families, friends, and caregivers, the issue of what to do about an aging loved one who is at-risk while driving can be perplexing and painful. Many families have difficulty deciding when their older relative should stop driving and must weigh potential safety considerations against their loved one's sense of independence, pride, and control.

The following are some warning signs that may indicate that an older driver can no longer operate an automobile safely:

• They run through stop signs or red lights before they realize
  they should have stopped;



• They stop for green lights, or when there is no indication
  that they need to stop;



• They come close to hitting other vehicles, pedestrians, or
  objects with their vehicle;



• They merge into another lane, or change lanes without
  looking;



• They drive the wrong way against traffic;



• They get lost in familiar areas;



• They stop in the middle of intersections; or



• They confusing the gas and the brake pedals.
  
  

Reporting an At-Risk Driver

If you are concerned about the ability of an older friend or relative to drive safely, but have been unable to convince them to give up driving, you can ask the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles to conduct a medical review of their ability to operate an automobile. DMV promptly reviews all reports of hazardous or impaired drivers it receives. As part of the review process, DMV may require the older driver to:

• Submit a medical and/or vision statement from their doctor;



• Pass the two-part driver's license knowledge exam; and/or



• Pass the road skills (driving) test.
  
  

Based on DMV's evaluation of the medical information and/or test results, DMV will determine whether to:

• suspend their driving privilege;



• restrict their driving privilege; or



• require them to submit periodic medical and/or vision reports.

For further information, contact DMV by visiting their web site, or by calling toll-free 1-866-DMVLINE (1-866-368-5463) or 1-800-435-5137.

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