Having read this article, and it has also been on our local news - again I wonder, how old is TOO old to drive a vehicle, fly a plane, just work for pay in general??? Over the past many years I have read of the "elderly" ramming their vehicles into crowds (San Francisco market a few years back, for example), or they confuse the gas pedal for the brake, and run into buildings, other cars or people....YES! I believe after a certain age everyone should be tested again for these privileges.
In the past, I have heard of quite a few "snowbirds", those who travel to Florida during the winter months, from "up north"; often renew their drivers licenses in another state to avoid re-testing. In Ohio, there is no mandated age criteria for license renewal or loss, so wham-bam-thankya-mam - elderly drivers everywhere. If an elderly person has had an accident or moving violation, it is up to the individual officer whether to refer this person for re-testing, but definitely not a given. Don't get me wrong - I have nothing against the elderly, but realistically, their reflexes are much slower and other senses are less acute, making them a threat on the highways, or in this case - in the air. 86 years old is definitely too old to be flying a small group of people around.
Now, I run across this article...need we discuss driving a vehicle at 105 years old?!?! Actually this appears to be rather farcical - but point made!
This is an issue that needs to be addressed in our country, in a fair and equitable way, but again being very realistic. I understand that driving one's car is like the last bastion of independence, but there has to be a time to quit.
Off my soapbox now...later folks! TTFN.
The Great Diamond Heist
10 hours ago
