German Transport Minister Volker Wissing has expressed concerns about mandatory driving tests for seniors, warning that such measures would be unnecessary and inefficient. “I hold absolutely nothing for mandatory control drives for senior citizens” Wissing told the Funke Media Group (Friday editions).
He emphasized that it is not the state’s responsibility to regulate every aspect of life. People are capable of taking responsibility for themselves and others, he said and that does not require forms and expert opinions that only produce bureaucracy and tie up limited resources in government offices.
Wissing also pointed out that current statistics do not support the conclusion that older drivers in Germany pose a higher risk of accidents. “Many older people are very experienced and cautious drivers. I am placing my trust in personal responsibility” the German Transport Minister said.
Experts are also discussing driver fitness checks for seniors at the Transport Court and will present their recommendations on Friday.