I’m a driving instructor – this age group is worst on the road (not over-70s)

As a driving instructor and then examiner since 1991, I have spent a total of 34 years observing how the British public drive, and I can without a doubt tell you that the problem isn’t older drivers. I have taught more than 1,400 people – from teens to pensioners. I really enjoy doing my job. It enables me to see people develop as confident drivers with good attitudes towards driving and safety. But being on the roads of south London all day does mean I see other drivers’ behaviour – and it’s not older people who take the riskiest chances. It’s people in the 30-to-40 age bracket that take risks and cause the most danger on the roads. Shorts Every day I see them getting angry at others sticking to the speed limit, often becoming aggressive and impatient with my learners. They will drive past at speed and not realise they have more vehicles to overtake and no space to pull back. They also pass on the wrong side of bollards too. In fact, I find, it’s the over-70s who are the best drivers. Often, they have been behind the wheel for more than 40 years. Yes, it’s true that as we get older our reactions change, but their experience more than makes up for it. The more mature people are calm and don’t stress so easily, a vital skill for competent motoring. Those who are more mature are calm and don’t stress so easily (Photo: dusanpetkovic/Getty) There has been discussion in recent years around whether there should be an upper age limit. I would hope nobody ever implements this fully, as so many more elements need to be considered. Eyesight is a big issue but I’m sure most older people have theirs checked regularly. Moreover, if people are expected to work into their later years, then many professions still need licences. For instance, bus drivers – and there are so many driving instructors over 70, so I hope nobody will suggest taking their livelihood away from them. Laura Bernard-Davies is a driving instructor and former examiner EXPLORE MORE ON THE TOPICS IN THIS STORY