People living in Australia know that the driving rules are very strict, but there are calls for further tightening due to a series of accidents.
Sue and Gary Jenkins's 22-year-old son, Dann, was killed by an older driver while riding a motorcycle in northern New York. The 87-year-old driver, Edwin Jessop, was found guilty of negligent driving, but was sentenced to nine months in prison and suspended for his age.
Shortly before the accident, Mr. Jessop was confirmed to be able to drive, but later eyesight tests found that he needed glasses. Jenkins has launched a campaign against driving assessments of older drivers, such as eyesight tests by optometrists rather than doctors, and visual afterlight tests that rule out dementia.
The new state has the strictest restrictions on older drivers in Australia. Here are the driving rules and their differences in different jurisdictions.
New state
In the new state, drivers over the age of 75 must undergo an annual health assessment to retain their license.
When you are 85 years old, in addition to the annual physical examination, you must pass the actual driving test every two years to retain your driver's license. Unlike neighbouring new states, the state does not require motorists to pass a driving test after reaching a certain age.
Victoria state
Whether or not to retain a driver's license in Victoria depends on one's driving behavior and health, not on age.
Older drivers may need a medical check-up if they have a disease or disability that may affect their ability to drive safely.
Kunzhou
In Kunzhou, drivers aged 75 and over must carry a valid medical certificate every time they drive.
The certificate issued by the doctor must be updated every 13 months. Unlike Victoria, drivers must have a medical check-up, whether or not you have health problems.
Western Australia
In Western Australia, once you are 80 years old, you need to have an annual medical check-up before you can renew your driver's license.
Once you're 85, if your doctor recommends, you may be asked to do a practical test-but it's not mandatory.
South Australia
In South Australia, the state government will send you a self-assessment form every year after you are 75 years old.
Drivers have a duty to fill out the form as much as they can, and they can turn to a doctor when they fill it out. However, if your doctor thinks you may need help to decide if it is appropriate to drive, the driver will have to accept one more driver test, that is, 30 minutes of actual driving.
Tashoun
After 65, your license can only be renewed for five years at a time. It is the duty of all drivers to report any health conditions that may affect their driving.
In 2011, the state's government removed mandatory tests for drivers over the age of 85.
Capital territory
In the state, drivers aged 75 or over must undergo annual examinations by their own doctors.
Northern Territory
Motor vehicle registrants in the Northern Territory may require drivers to provide the skills and health certificates they need to hold a driving licence at any age.
