Have you wondered if older drivers are still fit to get behind the wheel? Age alone isn’t the issue, but “certain signs should support caution.”

A tragic case in La Rochelle highlighted the debate: an 83-year-old woman, driving the wrong way, struck children on bicycles. Data from the Road Safety Authority shows drivers over 75 are “involved in accidents as often as young people aged 18 to 24.” With age, vision, reflexes, and attention can decline.

Unlike Italy or Germany, which require medical checks after 70 or 75, France gives lifelong validity to the B license. “No medical test or mandatory check is requested from a certain age.” Responsibility lies with the individual.

Doctors can assess eyesight, reflexes, or coordination and recommend limits such as daytime driving only. Courses also help seniors review traffic rules and adapt to changes like roundabouts or new driving aids. Switching from manual to automatic cars can make driving easier.

Instead of blaming older drivers, experts suggest supporting them. Their long experience is valuable—“a little help to stay up to date can make all the difference.”