Drivers Of All Ages Should Be Tested

Dear Ann Landers: This is in response to “On Needles and Pins in West Palm Beach,” whose elderly parents were able to renew their driver’s licenses without taking tests. Yes, that is what goes on in Florida. This state has 40,000 registered drivers over the age of 90. I have no idea how many of those are active, frequent drivers, but most 90-year-olds I know have trouble getting around their own kitchens, let alone navigating through the type of traffic we have in metropolitan areas today.

I personally know a woman in her 80s who recently had a mild stroke. She has serious heart disease and wears a pacemaker. She also drives. Not long ago, in Hollywood, Fla., an 89-year-old woman stopped her car on the track of an oncoming train. She’s dead. I have seen older folks do incredibly dangerous things, such as come to a sudden stop on the exit ramp of an interstate. Most of these people are quick to tell you they have never had an accident, but the real question is “How many accidents have they caused?”

And it’s not only the old folks. The Florida Highway Patrol estimates that in Dade County, 30 percent of drivers on the road at any given time are driving with either suspended licenses or no license at all. Florida does not require mechanical inspections, which means any and all kinds of junk are allowed on the road. Add to this mix rubber-necking tourists and cell-phone addicts, and it’s no wonder our insurance rates are insane.

As the population continues to age, we are going to have to step up to the plate and insist that drivers be road-tested on a regular basis. Driving is a physical skill that requires good sight, hearing, muscle coordination and quick response time. It is not a game, and it is not a right. Please help us get the word out, Ann. I’ve just about - Had It in Florida

Dear Had It: You have written a powerful letter that is sure to get the attention of not only Floridians but people all over the United States and Canada who are concerned about elderly drivers. If your letter doesn’t “get the word out,” I don’t know what will. Thanks on behalf of all the people whose eyes you’ve opened today.

Dear Ann Landers: Nine years ago, I was in an abusive relationship. I was still a teenager when I moved in with this man. We had two children. I thought that he loved me and that I could change him, but I was wrong. When I realized how dangerous the situation was for me and my children, I left.

I could not have done it without your help, Ann. You printed the phone number of the domestic violence hotline, and I called it. Those wonderful people told me where to go for help and counseling. If it weren’t for you, I probably wouldn’t be here today. It’s been a long, hard road, but I now know I’ll make it.

Please run that number again for those who didn’t see it but need to. Thanks for everything. The women and children you have helped will be forever in your debt. - Healthy in Portland

Dear Portland: Thanks for letting me know I helped. Your letter was a real day-brightener. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is 1-800-799-SAFE (TDD: 1-800-787-3224). And P.S.: This number will also provide help for men who are battered by women. And there are more of them out there than most people think.