Just saw this, anybody have any more infor on it?


http://thefacts.com/story.lasso?ewcd=6094c96d67cb765b

quote:

Drivers older than 79 can no longer renew their driver’s license by mail after the passage of House Bill 84. “Katie’s Law” is named for 17-year-old Katie Bolka who was killed in 2006 when an elderly driver ran a red light.

Lots of other interesting changes to Texas laws that any resident should probably take a look at.

Yea, there is a little more to that, I think at 85 you have to renew each year. Saw it on the news but can't remember for sure the age, might be 84.

I read that report of changes in the Texas laws as well and the change was to every two years at age 85. To me it seems like a good law. I really don't expect to be on the road by then anyway and having observed many folks (my parents among them) who reach that age, it is something that does need to be monitored. I think it is a good change.

quote:

For a recorded sound bite on this topic, call 512-424-2606
Read about DPS online at www.txdps.state.tx.us
August 20, 2007
date
New traffic, criminal laws set to go into effect September 1
Notable traffic and criminal laws that go into effect on September 1 (unless noted otherwise)
include the following:
HB 84, known as Katie’s Law, requires drivers 85 years of age and above to pass a vision test to
have their driver license renewed. Licenses will be valid for two years instead of six. Drivers age 79 and older are not allowed to renew their driver licenses electronically.

Read about DPS online at www.txdps.state.tx.us

I would agree with Kirk. We've seen a lot of older folks who really should not be at the wheel.

Along with some in every age group. Young people and some who have no control over their selves.

I would have to agree. It may be a good thing.

The only thing that bothers me about this is were you to ask any cop what age group causes or is in the most crashes he will reply, 30 and younger. Shouldn't they be the ones to need a yearly renewal? 65+s are rarely in crashes or cause them.

From observation of my own parents, I can tell you that very few people are able to realize when the time comes to stop driving. My dad did realize that and stopped driving and did not renew his license. But mother who was younger never gave her's up and we were forced to take the car to stop her. Even dad never saw that her abilities were slipping, but he passed a couple of years before we got her off of the road. Our concern was as much for my mother as for others who share the road. And that is a very different issue that is the record of younger drivers.

I suspect that many of us will think that we are still good drivers when the time comes that we should surrender our licenses.

Who are you to take someone's car.
They could pass a million laws in the name of people who have run red lights, Why pick on old people. Why are they putting cameras on red lights, to catch old people, I think not.

quote:

Originally posted by KATHY ROSE:
Who are you to take someone's car.

Sounds like who he is is a son concerned with his mother's safety, along with the safety of the other drivers and pedestrians she might encounter.

I think also it is a good law. UNTIL I get 85!
One question though, how do you control 85 year old drivers with other states license?

quote:

Originally posted by Nick Russell:

quote:

Originally posted by KATHY ROSE:
Who are you to take someone's car.

Sounds like who he is is a son concerned with his mother's safety, along with the safety of the other drivers and pedestrians she might encounter.

One person's concern is another's persons loss of freedom, and who is qualified to speak for most people find it hard to accept because of one person they are familiar with??

There is nothing wrong with demonstrating your ability to drive, and to have your eyesight checked as your years advance. If you are competent, then you pass. If not, then you should NOT be on the road.

Personally, I wish they would do the same for everyone. At least your eyesight has to be checked in most states at renewal time.

ESPECIALLY when it comes to RVs, I wish ALL states required an upgraded license for RV over a certain weight.

I agree with Jack...driving is a privilege, not a right. And anyone who is a danger on the roads to themselves and/or others should not be driving--lack of ability and reflexes in some elderly people is the same as a drunk driver, and I don't think anyone thinks someone who is drunk should be on the roads. This obviously doesn't apply to all, but those who are still in good shape should be able to pass a test.
Brenda

quote:

Originally posted by cruzgal:
I agree with Jack...driving is a privilege, not a right. And anyone who is a danger on the roads to themselves and/or others should not be driving--lack of ability and reflexes in some elderly people is the same as a drunk driver, and I don't think anyone thinks someone who is drunk should be on the roads. This obviously doesn't apply to all, but those who are still
Brenda

I still wonder why you people think the elderly should be singled out, they have the same privledges as others