Canadian Automobile Association: Helping Aging Drivers
CAA Policies
CAA believes that performance, competency, and functional ability are more appropriate measures of driving skill than age alone.
As the Canadian population ages, the provincial and federal governments must address the needs of aging drivers and make roads and highways safer for all involved, rather than simply limiting the mobility of otherwise safe drivers through age-based restrictions.
Ability-based licensing
CAA advocates a system of ability-based licensing that links driving privileges with demonstrated ability. CAA also supports strategies that reduce driving impediments for our aging population, including improving road and highway design; designing vehicles for the needs of aging drivers; and educating aging drivers and their family members to identify diminished driving competence before collisions occur.
Fact-based assessment
Screening and assessment tools must be based on reliable, proven measures of driver performance, focusing on demonstrable factors that contribute to collision involvement. Screening outcomes should be flexible and include recommendations for counselling, refresher training, rehabilitation therapy and further assessment.