The Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland have launched a new campaign, encouraging drivers aged 60 years and over to reflect on their driving skills and take steps to stay safe and confident behind the wheel.
The Fitness to Drive campaign was launched by Fiona Hyslop, Scotland’s cabinet secretary for transport, and Michael McDonnell, director of Road Safety Scotland, as the driver MOT workshop begins its tour around Scotland to bring the campaign to drivers across the nation.
In 2024, 29% of car drivers killed or seriously injured on Scotland’s roads were aged 60 years and over. With more than 850,000 drivers in this age group in Scotland, the campaign highlights the importance of recognising changes that can come with age and taking simple, practical steps to address them.
These include booking regular eye examinations, reducing night-time driving, avoiding busy junctions at peak hours, and refreshing driving skills with a mature driving review.
The driver MOT roadshow will raise awareness of these measures throughout autumn and winter with a series of events taking place at shopping centres, garden centres and community hubs across Scotland. Drivers can drop by for information and reassurance, as well as advice on how to adapt driving habits to continue driving safely for longer.
Friends and family are also encouraged to attend for tips on starting supportive conversations if they have concerns about a loved one’s driving.
Fiona Hyslop said: “As we get older, changes to eyesight, hearing, and reaction times can all affect our ability to drive safely. The Fitness to Drive campaign is about supporting older drivers to recognise those changes and take action to continue to stay safe on the road.
“Even one death on Scotland’s roads is one too many. By encouraging older drivers and their families to reflect on driving fitness, we can help save lives and ensure people feel confident and secure when they travel.”
The campaign is backed by IAM RoadSmart, who has played a key role in supporting the delivery of the driver MOT roadshow.
Stewart Mackie, IAM RoadSmart road safety manager for Scotland, said: “Having a mature driver review can be a great way to boost your confidence on the roads and ensure that you and your passengers are safe.
“We know just how important driving is, and how it represents the freedom to go anywhere, anytime. This is why many mature drivers choose our course, because it gives them the confidence and skills to carry on driving and maintain their independence.
“We’d encourage anyone who is interested to come along to their local driver MOT event, where a friendly team will be on hand to offer support, guidance and practical advice to help you drive safely for longer.”
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