The tragedy of Tuesday’s accident in Ellmau left Tyrol in shock. As reported, an 86-year-old motorist rammed into a pram in front of a supermarket because she probably mixed up the brake and accelerator pedals. A one-year-old boy died. Police are now investigating the driver on suspicion of culpable homicide.
A day later – again – the discussion about a mandatory medical fitness test for older driver’s license holders flared up. Because such an inspection is currently only required once for the car driver’s license – immediately after obtaining the driver’s license and therefore usually for young drivers.
“It wouldn’t be bad to introduce the health test from a certain age,” said Wolfgang Löderle, head of the Schwaz district’s traffic and safety department.
“reactivity decreases”
He brings a number of arguments into play: “As we age, our vision deteriorates – especially at night – and overview, the responsiveness decreases, mobility is often limited, leading to problems when reversing.” He remembers an accident as tragic as in Ellmau a few years ago in Maurach. There, a guest at a pizzeria was hit by an elderly driver and died.
Boys are more dangerous
Of course, older drivers would not be responsible for the mass of fatal accidents. “Young drivers and between the ages of 45 and 55 are more at risk.” Apart from that, politicians have not dared to introduce health tests for years. Because that would affect a wide group of voters.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
