KUALA LUMPUR – Senior citizens with a record of road accidents due to their health conditions should get medical check-ups to see if they are fit to be issued driving licences, suggested Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
His proposal comes after Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director Datuk Azisman Alias’s opinion to limit the issuance of driving licences to senior citizens, saying that their health conditions could contribute to road accidents.
“If the government wants to limit issuance of motor vehicle licences to senior citizens, it should only consider those who are really at risk due to health issues.
“The procedure should not be a burden and a mechanism should be drawn up to identify who needs to undergo a medical check-up.”
He added that evaluating drivers based solely on age or referring to isolated cases can lead to discrimination.
“There are many other factors of road accidents that deserve more attention, including reckless driving. The same goes for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Strict measures on drivers like these are welcome.”
He added that senior drivers are more courteous and careful on the road, as they are not in a rush while driving.
“For many seniors who are unable to drive, they are not behind the wheel as they know the risks. Their family members will also not allow them to do so.”
Last week, Azisman said that the elderly also needed to undergo medical check-ups and get doctor’s approvals confirming that they are fit to drive.
“As people age, they are more likely to suffer from health conditions, such as Alzheimer’s and blurred vision, which can cause accidents on the road.”
However, Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said last Saturday that the proposal was Azisman’s personal opinion, and had yet to be discussed.
He added that any new safety or security regulations must undergo a proper research process before it can be implemented by all the relevant stakeholders. – The Vibes, September 27, 2021
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