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More work needed to fix DriveABLE

Recent changes to the DriveABLE program are welcomed

Recent changes to the DriveABLE program are welcomed, but more work must be done to ensure testing is accessible to seniors in the Cariboo.  With these changes, seniors will no longer lose their driving privileges solely on the basis of an in-office computer assessment.

“These are constructive first steps in changing the program to address concerns raised by seniors,” said Bob Simpson, MLA for Cariboo North.  “My office has a number of cases involving seniors who are having challenges with the present computer testing and these changes made by government will provide additional testing options for seniors not comfortable with computers.”

Although there are more testing options, access to these tests is still a major challenge for Cariboo seniors.

“While it is important that seniors are tested to ensure their safety and the safety of fellow drivers, testing must be done in a fair and accessible way,” said Simpson.   “Currently seniors in the Cariboo have to travel out of the region to be tested in either Prince George or Kamloops, and this is unacceptable.”

With the DriveABLE computer test no longer the only testing option, seniors should have the right to simply opt out of the DriveABLE test and choose existing local testing options.

“We have Service BC offices throughout the Cariboo that provide regular driving tests as well as computer-based tests for new drivers,” said Simpson.

“The Cariboo is growing and an increasing number of seniors are choosing this region to call home and government services, including driving tests, must meet resident’s needs.”