Are you fit to drive?

North East Police are asking the public if they are fit to drive, and there's a chance to put your skills to the test

Author: Lewis MichiePublished 13th Dec 2021

Police officers in the North East are asking drivers to check if they are fit to drive.

They say a large portion of accidents on the regions' roads result from drivers who are unfit to drive for one reason or another.

Today (December 14th) officers, along with partners from Aberdeen City Council and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service are allowing your to put your skills to the test.

They'll be in the Bon Accord Centre in Aberdeen with an interactive driving simulator, which tests your reactions to hazards on the road.

The event is designed to provide a safe environment for older drivers to have a go on the equipment and it is not a formal test with no serious consequences on the day.

It does however open up the chance for attendees and family to consider their fitness to drive.

Road Policing Sergeant Alexander Bowser-Riley told Northsound News:

"It will make people think potentially about how they could react to scenarios on the road.

"Potentially if we are looking at peoples eye sight as well, as peoples eyesight deteriorates it maybe sort of creeps up on people."

Drivers can be classed as unfit to drive because of issues with eyesight, or once their reaction times slow.

But it also includes those drink or drug driving.

Sergeant Bowser-Riley continued:

"A lot of the accidents that we attend, a reasonable portion of them peoples fitness to drive is a factor, and often the main factor

"Weather it is drink or drugs, or even down to medical conditions that effect peoples driving or medication that people might be taking."

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