Restrictions on Driving: At What Age Should One Be Banned from Driving.

Ukraine Prepares to Amend Road Safety Regulations

Ukraine plans to introduce significant changes in road safety regulations related to age restrictions for drivers. This initiative is based on data regarding natural age-related changes affecting driving skills.

Age-related changes, such as decreased reaction time, impaired vision, and reduced cognitive functions, directly impact the ability to drive safely. Statistics show that among elderly drivers, the risk of traffic accidents increases due to slow reactions and inadequate assessment of road situations.

This issue is particularly relevant in European countries with a high percentage of elderly population. European experts propose various solutions: doctor Ingrid Denshel insists on individual assessments of the physical and psychological state of drivers, road safety expert Siegfried Brockmann suggests mandatory checks after the age of 75, while psychologist Katya Shlaynyts emphasizes the need to consider driving experience along with regular medical examinations.

A system of checks for drivers over 65 with regular cognitive ability testing is being developed in the European Union. Some countries are considering the possibility of annual checks after reaching a certain age.

Ukraine is also considering this issue. Bill No. 8082, which is under review by the Verkhovna Rada, stipulates mandatory medical and psychological tests for drivers over 65 when renewing their driver's licenses. For age groups of 70 and 75 years, the frequency of such checks is planned to increase.

Currently, existing Ukrainian legislation sets only the minimum age for obtaining a driver's license: 16 years for categories 'A' and 'A1', 18 years for categories 'B' and 'C', 19 years for driving vehicles with heavy trailers, and 21 years for buses and minibuses. There is currently no upper age limit.