Worried about senior drivers? Wait until you hear about teen driving

To the editor: Who are the problem drivers? Ask Google. According to the National Safety Council’s injury report, 2021 data shows that while there are fewer teen drivers on the road than older drivers, teens are responsible for more crashes. (“A driving test for license renewal? The answers range from absolutely to “Leave us seniors alone!””, column of October 5)

Ask insurance companies: Teenagers are more likely to have accidents and make mistakes because they have less experience and are less attentive. On average, teenagers cost more than three times as much to insure.

Soon my over 70 license will need to be renewed. My worry about taking a written exam is being packed into a room with potentially sick people, answering questions unrelated to actual driving conditions.

I have an accident-free life. No points for that? Test my vision – I don’t wear glasses. We should be concerned about people who drive drunk or high or use their phones while driving.

Toni Wellen, Carpinteria

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To the editor: I am 74 years old. I applaud the DMV’s new non-knowledge testing system for most senior drivers – not because I’m afraid of failing the written test, but because there were too many questions that didn’t work. nothing to do with driving ability.

The main reason I have to continue driving is necessity. My 78 year old brother and I share a house. He’s no longer able to drive, so it’s just me. None of us married or had children.

There are too many trips, outings, and places to go all the time to take Uber. I’m looking for alternatives to driving, but I haven’t found a good option yet. I guess the beat continues.

I’m just grateful to have one less thing to worry about when renewing my license.

Joyce Jacoby, Los Angeles

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To the editor: The controversy over DMV testing requirements for seniors seeking to renew their licenses ignores the impact of the 2nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution as applied to mobility in Southern California: “A well-maintained automobile is essential for travel in California of the South, the people’s right to drive must not be violated.

To those who suggest public transportation as an alternative for seniors, I ask if they have ever tried to get from Thousand Oaks to Santa Monica without an automobile. Plan a two-day trip and one night in a hotel using public transportation.

You will get my car key when you snatch it from my cold, dead hands.

Phillip Gold, Westlake Village

This story was originally published in the Los Angeles Times.