Elderly driving bill nears vote

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP/AP) - A key legislative committee is recommending a bill that would require drivers 75 and older to pass cognitive and physical tests.

The proposed crackdown follows a spate of fatal accidents involving elderly drivers in Massachusetts.

Seniors at the Northampton Council on Aging told 22News that they think this bill goes a bit far. Elizabeth Whitwood, of Florence, said "I think the age is a little unfair. I think the bill itself is fine. I think there was a proposal to make it 85 and older. I think 75 is too young."

Doris Snide, of South Deerfield, said "It depends so much on who the senior is and their condition. I would almost think that a doctor could make a determination."

But, doctors are bound by confidentiality agreements. So often they can only give their advice to their patient.

The bill would let doctors and police officers report to the Registrar of Motor Vehicles if they believe a driver is unable to safely operate a car. The operator's license would be suspended and reviewed by the registrar within thirty days. Drivers would have the right to appeal.

Older drivers who passed the initial tests would be required to repeat them every time their licenses were renewed.