Old people (75+) really should not be permitted behind the wheel.

I hear this a decent amount, and I don’t think it’s a terrible notion, but I think it’s still not enough. My grandmother experienced significant dementia symptoms and erratic behavior in her 60s. My grandfather was still sharp as a tack into his 80s. We hand out licenses starting at 16 and I’d worry more about a 16yo than a 75yo (in general). The driver in this article was impaired which probably had more to do with his driving than his age. Driving while tired is just as bad as driving drunk and I bet rush hour is filled with commuters that fit that description.

If we do start limiting licenses (and I think we should), it should be met with increased investment in our communities. Old people, young people, drunk people, tired people all drive because it’s the only way to get around in most places. I would be in favor of increased standards before you get a license along with retesting every 5 years, regardless of age. When I was 16, I drove around the block within the speed limit and was given free ability to drive up to a large Uhaul for the rest of my life. The test should be more rigorous, the learning period should be at least until 18, consequences should be greater, and there should be robust options other than driving.

I know I’m preaching to the choir here but this happened kinda close to where I grew up and I had to vent.