Elderly Drivers in Germany Raise Safety Concerns After Multiple Accidents

Two separate incidents involving senior drivers highlight the debate over mandatory driving tests for older adults.

An 85-year-old driver in Mannheim caused a series of accidents while parking, damaging walls, vehicles, and infrastructure, with total damages exceeding €30,000.
No injuries were reported in the Mannheim incident, but the driver’s vehicle was totaled, and police are questioning his fitness to drive.
In Berlin, an 86-year-old driver ran a red light, injuring three pedestrians, including a nine-year-old child, who required hospital treatment for minor injuries.
Both drivers were found to be sober, but their ability to safely operate a vehicle is under scrutiny, reigniting discussions about senior driving regulations in Germany.
Despite studies showing seniors are frequently at fault in accidents, Germany does not mandate regular driving tests for older drivers, a position reaffirmed by the transport minister.