Older Australian drivers urged to take lessons, cut accidents

A recent report indicates that Australian drivers over the age of 50 would benefit from taking driving lessons to decrease road accidents. A study conducted by UNSW in Sydney suggests that this measure could enhance the skills of older drivers. An AAMI survey found that drivers over 65 are involved in 26 percent of all collisions, making them the most prone to accidents.

Professor Kaarin Antsey from UNSW emphasizes that drivers over 50 should refresh their driving skills.

People don't naturally ask themselves 'do I need to update my driving skills,' says Professor Antsey. He suggests that drivers should be encouraged to take additional driving lessons once they turn 50.

Research has revealed an increase in accidents among those over 80. Historically, this issue has been managed by revoking driver's licenses, which is a drastic measure. Professor Antsey notes that many errors are due to habits formed in youth, such as improper turning or failing to maintain one's lane.

Professor Antsey conducted the Better Drive Study, aimed at enhancing the safety of older drivers. The study included drivers over 65, divided into three groups. One group received a refresher course on road regulations, the second received video feedback, and the third participated in driving lessons.

The study results, to be published in 2025, show that participants improved their driving skills. "But in our pilot study, which was very similar, we found that of the people that had our intervention involving driving lessons and video feedback, we moved a significant proportion from unsafe to safe drivers, and we reduced their driving errors," says Professor Antsey. In 2023, Australia recorded its highest number of road fatalities in five and a half years, with 1,253 drivers killed.