People aged 60 and over in South Gloucestershire are encouraged to attend a roadshow event in Yate that aims to refresh driving skills and help older drivers safely remain on the road.
The roadshow aims to address modern changes to vehicles, and also how our own driving skills and habits may have changed, with advice on how we can update those skills. The event will be relaxed and friendly with useful information to help improve people’s knowledge and confidence, as well as offering valuable health advice.
There will be a number of information stands on offer, a driving simulator to test reaction times, and free eye tests, along with a presentation covering subjects such as driving licences, changes in the highway code, safer driving at night, and effects of medication. Representatives from Avon and Somerset Constabulary, the ambulance service, South Gloucestershire Handy Van services and local driving instructors will be present, and anyone who attends will also receive a free copy of the latest edition of The Highway Code.
The free event will be held from 1.30pm to 4.30pm on Thursday 30 November at Armadillo Youth Venue & Café in Yate, South Gloucestershire BS37 4FW.
Cllr Colin Hunt, Cabinet member responsible for transport, said: “Some people become concerned when they are approaching the age of 70 and need to renew their driving licence. We want to help people keep hold of their licences longer by addressing any concerns and improving their driving knowledge and confidence.
“The event includes an interactive presentation, a chance to test your skills on the driving simulator, have your eyesight checked, and talk to our partner agencies.”
The road safety team will be working alongside North Avon Driving Instruction Association (NADIA) at the event to offer one hour driving refresher sessions with an approved driving instructor. This takes place in the driver’s own vehicle, at a convenient time and place. The cost of this personal session is £10 (usually £25, but South Gloucestershire Council contribute the other £15). Spaces for the personal sessions are limited, to book email roadsafety@southglos.gov.uk or call us on 01454 863606.
This roadshow event is free to attend and is funded by South Gloucestershire Council’s road safety education team. Advance booking is required, please book online at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/driver-refresher-event-continue-to-drive-with-confidence-tickets-39036131119
For more information about the road safety team visit www.southglos.gov.uk/roadsafety
