Work Drive

A couple who are celebrating over half a century of marriage, and a half century on the road, are giving their backing to a new road safety campaign.

Stanley and Teresa Leonard, both 83, are amongst Lancashire's safest group of road users - the over 60s. This age group has increased considerably in the last 20 years and makes up a high proportion of the traffic on our roads.

The new County Council leaflet, 'Drive On!,' gives older drivers the low-down on how to continue to be a safe driver.It also explains how the demands of the modern highway demand more from motorists.

Stanley explained:

"I would recommend this leaflet to anyone that is getting older. There are regulations that you need to be aware of, particularly when you reach 70 years. It is also important to know how driving demands more from you these days.

There's a lot more traffic on the roads, and drivers sometimes don't give enough warning that they are going to pull out. As long as you are aware of what is going on around you, and the way driving has changed over the years, you will be fine.

The journeys I make now tend to be shorter, but I still enjoy the freedom that driving brings. Getting behind the wheel is still a big part of my life."

Photograph: Stanley and Teresa Leonard

His wife, Teresa - also 83 - still drives too.

She said:

"I learnt to drive during the war. At that time driving tests were suspended, so I only took my test later on. There wasn't as much traffic on the roads back then and it was a lot easier to drive.

"Having a car means having independence."

County Councillor, Nora Ward, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation said:

"Our older drivers are a real asset and that is why we want to keep them on the road. The experience and consideration they have built up over the years means they can be amongst the safest travellers on the road."

Lancashire County Council's Road Safety Group's checklist for older drivers:

- See your GP if you are unsure about your fitness to drive.

- Refresh your knowledge by looking at the Highway Code.

- Allow plenty of time for your journey and plan your route in advance.

- All drivers, whatever age, are required by law to notify the DVLA of the onset or worsening of a medical condition, which may affect ability to drive safely.

The advisory leaflet 'Drive On! - Advice for older drivers' is now available across all County Libraries as part of Lancashire County Council Road Safety Group's long-term road safety strategy 'Together We Can Make the Difference.'

Copies of the leaflet can also be obtained from some Age Concern and Help the Aged outlets in the County. If would like a copy please call (01772) 532960.

Drive On leaflet

Change Text Only Settings

Graphic version of this page