Re-test the over-65s say younger drivers

A majority of 17-24 year olds would like to see a test retaken at the even younger age of 63, the survey by Auto Trader showed.

The poll of 3,763 motorists also revealed that 73 per cent feel concerned when driving behind an older motorist, while 26 per cent feel unsafe when being driven by a driver over the age of 65.

Also, 65 per cent think older drivers should be subject to medical checks such as regular sight and co-ordination checks, while 30 per cent think the Government should reduce the number of points older drivers are allowed before they lose their licence.

The poll showed that 21 per cent believe the regulations to monitor older drivers are insufficient.

Auto Trader pointed out that people aged over 70 made up 9 per cent of all drivers but were responsible for only 6 per cent of driver casualties, while motorists under 30 make up 20 per cent of drivers but 35 per cent of casualties.

The poll also revealed that 57 per cent of drivers whose family or friends live more than 10 miles away have cut the times they visit them because of rising travel costs, with 71 per cent thinking fuel prices are rising faster than any other mode of transportation.

Auto Trader group director Nathan Coe said: “Any correlation between growing old and driving safely is not straightforward, making it difficult for Government to enforce a one-rule-fits-all policy.

“We of course want to help people to stay on the roads for as long as they are safe to do so.”