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It is disappointing to learn of the delay in introducing legislative proposals to lower the age threshold for medical checks for commercial drivers. Recent fatal accidents involving elderly taxi drivers in Ngau Tau Kok and Tung Chung respectively highlighted the need for immediate attention to a comprehensive review of older drivers’ driving abilities.

First, a medical examination and an on-road driving assessment should be prerequisites for the renewal of driving licences for professional drivers, especially those who are older. Fitness to drive should be assessed by registered medical officers and occupational therapists.

We should especially look out for diseases and conditions that are associated with ageing, including Parkinson’s disease, dementia and other degenerative disorders that are irreversible by nature. These are diseases that would impair judgment and attention.

An on-road assessment, of driving skills in general and emergency-handling abilities in particular, should be mandatory for the renewal of driving licences. With such requirements in place, road safety would be safeguarded and life-threatening accidents could be prevented.

Second, we should consider restricting the weekly working hours of commercial drivers who are aged 65 or above. With a 35-hour ceiling on weekly working hours, for example, driving while fatigued could be minimised, given that driving is a demanding task which requires concentration.