Wednesday, 08 July 2009 15:09

West Sussex County Council is launching the ‘Experienced Driver Assessment’ (EDA) and is being supported by Age Concern West Sussex.

It’s aimed at those aged over 60, who may be concerned about their driving. Health professionals and loved ones can also encourage participation.

The EDA is about updating skills, as some habits can contribute to hazardous driving.

Derek Whittington, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said: “The Experienced Driver Assessment isn’t a test. It’s an assessment of driving ability and skills, so your licence cannot be taken away afterwards on the basis of the feedback.

“The County Council’s driving assessors talk to the motorist before they even go out on the road. They’ll find out what sort of journeys they usually do, if they have any concerns and what’s prompted them to take the assessment. Once these key facts are known, the assessor can tailor the evaluation around the area where they live and roads they would usually travel on.”

Should support and advice be required afterwards, Age Concern West Sussex can offer up to date information. By working together, the County Council and Age Concern can ensure the range of options open to the motorist is explored.

Lynda Ryan from Age Concern added: “People who decide not to continue driving have a range of transport options available to them. Also they don’t always appreciate how much money they can save by not running a car; if your car usage is low it can work out cheaper to use alternative means of transport. The Age Concern Information and Advice Service are able to provide all the necessary information and advice to enable people to make decisions about alternative arrangements to having their own car.”

To book an ‘Experienced Driver Assessment’ or to find out more you can call 01243 777554 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it