Press Releases

Self-reflection, honesty and family support are key for safer senior driving.

Posted on February 18th, 2019, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist says older drivers can stay safer for longer by reflecting on their driving and being honest about tasks they may find more difficult. Support from family members can be very helpful, as long as any tricky conversations with a senior driver are approached with tact and sensitivity. GEM road safety officer Neil Worth commented: “Reaching a certain age does not automatically mean … read more →


GEM calls for overhaul of driver eyesight test Jan 2016

Posted on January 4th, 2016, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY organisation GEM Motoring Assist is calling on the Government to introduce compulsory eyesight testing for all drivers at regular intervals. GEM says better regulation of eyesight tests for drivers would cut collisions and make Britain’s roads safer. A detailed test of a driver’s visual acuity and field of view should be required every 10 years, according to GEM. GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “We are worried … read more →


GEM supports GMC instruction for GP’s to tell DVLA about patients who are medically unfit to drive

Posted on November 26th, 2015, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY organisation GEM Motoring Assist fully supports the General Medical Council (GMC) in its new call to GPs who hesitate to report patients to the driver licensing agency. The GMC this week strengthened its advice, pointing out that doctors play an important role in keeping the wider public safe. GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “Thankfully most people accept that there are good reasons why certain medical conditions … read more →


GEM PR raise declaration 70 to 75

Posted on September 2nd, 2015, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown cover specialist GEM Motoring Assist welcomes the news that the Department for Transport is considering raising the age at which drivers must declare they are fit to drive from 70 to 75. GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “This is a sensible step, however we question the road safety value of any such age-related declaration. “Reaching a specific birthday doesn’t automatically lead to sudden deteriorations … read more →


GEM publishes new video to promote safer, more comfotable journeys for seniors

Posted on August 24th, 2015, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown cover specialist GEM Motoring Assist has published a brand new video to help older drivers and their passengers enjoy a more comfortable experience on journeys. The free video looks at how the process of ageing can affect our ability to get in and out of the car, or drive around safely and in comfort. GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “Most of us suffer the … read more →


Recognise early danger signs in senior drivers, GEM urges family members

Posted on August 12th, 2015, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown cover specialist GEM Motoring Assist is encouraging family members to be wise to the early signs of unsafe driving in their senior relatives. There are more than four million drivers aged over 70 in the UK. Many are still driving in their 90s, and nearly 200 centenarians still hold licences. GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “We want as many people as possible to enjoy … read more →


GEM calls for overhaul of driver eyesight test Feb 2015

Posted on February 11th, 2015, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY organisation GEM Motoring Assist says better regulation of eyesight tests for drivers would cut collisions and make Britain’s roads safer. GEM says a detailed test of a driver’s visual acuity and field of view should be required every 10 years. GEM chief executive David Williams MBE comments: “Speeding, drink or drug driving, driving unlicensed… these are responsible for a fraction of the crashes on our roads compared with … read more →


GEM issues medicines warning as colds and ‘flu season arrives

Posted on December 10th, 2014, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY AND breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is warning motorists about the dangerous effects medication can have on driving. As part of its ongoing campaign to raise awareness, GEM has produced a free leaflet entitled ‘Don’t Motor on Meds’, which offers advice on driving while taking prescription drugs. Some cold and ‘flu treatments, painkillers and other drugs can cause drowsiness, reducing a driver’s ability to concentrate on the driving … read more →


Helping senior drivers stay safe

Posted on October 30th, 2014, by , in Press Releases

Helping senior drivers stay safe There are now more than four million people in the UK aged 70 and over who hold driving licences, and this figure will keep rising. GEM Motoring Assist’s chief executive David Williams MBE is keen to put safety first, and offers some useful explanations for family members who may be keen to help, but unsure of whether to get involved: Getting Physical Older people are … read more →


Self-reflection is key for safer senior driving, says GEM Motoring Assist

Posted on April 15th, 2014, by , in Press Releases

ROAD SAFETY and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist says older drivers can stay safer for longer by reflecting on their driving, and by knowing where they can get expert safety advice. “Reaching a certain age does not automatically mean a complete loss of your ability to drive, judge distances and read road signs,” says GEM chief executive David Williams MBE. “The process of ageing is different for every single person. … read more →