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Cala
Lv 7
Cala asked in Cars & TransportationSafety · 1 decade ago

Relative in 80's no longer fit to drive.?

Just been in the car with an elderley relative. He can no longer judge the space he has around him, he mounted the kerb at one stage, then later slid along a wall and broke his wing mirror. He also has a large dent in the front wing and doesn't know how he got it. He can't judge his speed and alternated between holding all the traffic up then driving well above the speed limit. What do I do? I need to get someone to take his licence away before he hurts someone. Who do I speak to?

8 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Begin with him, but, ultimately, his doctor can do the forms that indicate to the DMV or whatever driver's licensing bureau handles that. Even the DMV can't just take a relative's word that someone is unable to be a safe driver. If your relative is NOT getting citations, then the DMV has no way of knowing how bad a driver he is.

    Source(s): Certified Instructor, National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course 4
  • Craig
    Lv 4
    1 decade ago

    Taking away a license may not stop him from driving. You need someone to take his keys away, and the family is in a better position to do that than doctors or authorities. The family should also divide up the responsibility for helping him get around, so he isn't stuck at home, alone and miserable.

  • David
    Lv 5
    1 decade ago

    his GP first of all if you are that concerned my old fella is 83 and still driving and I know were you are coming from he,s a retired long distance lorry driver and a very proud stubourn old bugger he doesn't drive the car no more , more of a point and pray, and if the road bends when he does it,s a coincedence hope you sort things out Big Mac

  • 1 decade ago

    First of all, you need to understand what the legal age to drive is for elderly individuals. Every state has a legal limit as to how long an elderly driver can operate a vehicle. Some states go up to 75 and some go up to 80. But knowing your states legal age as far as how long an elderly person can drive before it is deemed illegal is helpful.

    Secondly, you should have your relative go to the doctor or DMV and have them prove that they are capable by taking a test. Testing them at that age will determine whether they are fully capable of operating a vehicle. From what you are saying they obviously are no longer capable. If they are causing issues for themselves, the passengers and other drivers then it is time to force them to take a driving test. The passing or failure will show you whether they are still able to drive safely or not. I suggest a test at the DMV or an eye test at the doctors.

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  • 1 decade ago

    first of all i would speak to him. tell him what he is like in the car see if he will take it slower or give up driving. if he dosen't listen to you then ask a member of the family and see if they can speak some sense in to him. finaly if all else fails speak to the council.

    Source(s): my own experiense and thort
  • 1 decade ago

    Talk to the local police off the record and ask them to call round to see him and check that his licence and medicals are up to date and so his licence valid - I suspect it is not

  • 1 decade ago

    Start with his doctor. Then try the motor vehicle department. Remember he will probably feel emasculated, so try your best to be nice!!!

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    If an older driver's continued fitness to drive is in doubt because of how he or she appeared or performed while renewing a license, a history of crashes or violations, or reports by doctors, police, or other concerned observers, state licensing agencies may require the driver to undergo physical or mental examinations or retake the standard licensing tests.

    If you are concerned that an older driver may be becoming dangerous on the road, sensitivity is key in broaching the subject. For many people, an end to driving signals the beginning of tangible limitations and loss of independence.

    It can also begin a struggle to find new ways to accomplish errands and necessities, such as post office runs and grocery shopping. And it may mean foregoing daily pleasures, such as attending a weekly painting class or card game.

    Though transportation alternatives differ in type, cost, and availability depending on locale, there are a number of options for seniors who need to limit or stop driving.

    Taxis and driver services. In many locales, senior citizens qualify for discounts or vouchers for taxi and driver services that can pick them up on call or at prearranged times.

    Public transportation. Buses, trains, or trams are available in most areas. An older person who is unfamiliar with the routes used and procedures required for local public transportation can ask a friend who is a seasoned passenger on the bus or train to ride along on the first trip or two.

    Shuttles. As a public accommodation, places such as churches, senior centers, retirement communities, shopping centers, health clubs, and grocery stores often offer shuttle services that will pick up passengers at designated stops or transport them home.

    Senior services. The U.S. Administration on Aging’s Eldercare Locator (at http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare/Public/Home.asp... can provide a list of local transportation possibilities for seniors.

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