Distractions? Shit, I’ll bet that like me, most ‘Octos’ can’t figure out how to operate a GPS or other newfangled gadget. And if we could figure them out, we do not see well enough to punch those tiny little keys. The only thing that distracts us while we’re driving is some hot-looking chick that may appear within our view. And I’ll also bet that in Italy, just like in the U.S., it’s the young whippersnappers that cause most of the serious accidents.
DRIVERS OVER 80 FACE ITALIAN BAN IN BID TO SLASH HIGH DEATH TOLL
Mail Online
July 5, 2010
Italian drivers are renowned for their cavalier attitude to the rules of the road.
But with one of the highest death tolls in Europe - more than 5,000 last year alone --the authorities have decided something needs to be done.
Their solution is to propose a ban on all drivers aged over 80, because they are considered less alert and more easily distracted.
Mario Valducci, chairman of the Italian parliament's transport committee, said: 'We must look at setting an age limit.'
Currently driving licences must be renewed every ten years until the age of 50, every five years until 70 and then every three years. Drivers-have to provide medical certificates but there is no practical test.
Sandro Salvati, of Italy's Road Safety Association, said: 'Cars of today have a lot of additional extras and gadgets which can be rather distracting if you are at the wheel.
'There are mobile phones, sat navs [GPSs], TV monitors, laptop and iPod connectors as well as old-time distractions such as lighting a cigarette or putting make-up on.
'We estimate 30 per cent of accidents are caused by these types of distraction. Looking at how fit and capable elderly people are while at the wheel is something that should be seriously considered.'
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