Safe driving at any age.

[WillM]

Boston Globe
July 1, 2009
Tested for the road: Elderly Driver Subjects Himself to a Battery of Tests

Talk shows, news papers, and the media in general have picked up on "Elderly drivers" as the hot-topic de jour. There are a lot of discussions and now planned legislation (in Mass, at least) on how to fix the problem. Solutions range from having mandatory driving tests for drivers over xx age, requiring medical records at the time of license renewals (for drivers of all ages), and even putting the responsibility of pulling someone's license on the health care system (your doctor pulls your fun card).

This is the first article i have come across that even mentions the idea of proper driver training. My personal belief is that the lack of proper driver training is a big contributor to the problem. Whatever the cause - diminished mental/physical capability, tuning the radio, talking on the phone, or fussing with the kids in the back seat, it seems to me that the problems stem from drivers making the wrong decision. That includes decisions before getting into the car as well as those behind the wheel. WE often joke that driving (or worse, towing!) to an event is the most dangerous part of the weekend, and it is often true!

I am sad to hear of Ed's illness but delighted to know he remains as thoughtful and insightful as he was during his long-time status as COM member and instructor. Good for you Ed, you continue to teach and inspire us!

Best,

Will Martins

[offcamber09]

Ed and his wife Kathy have always been the types to consider others before themselves. This is another example. A few years back, Ed was in a battle for 2nd or 3rd place in a SCCA race at Limerock. He came into the pits unexpectedly which ended any chance of a good finish. We asked him what the problem was and he said some tape holding one of the Dzus fasteners on the hood was coming loose and he was worried about the hood coming off and hitting the guy behind him- never mind that he might have had a problem should the hood have come up. Oh and there were several other Dzuses that were tight- the hood wasn't going anywhere.
I know Ed enjoys instructing every bit as much as driving- and since the driving part of his career has ended- anyone that wants to pick Ed's brain in between track sessions will find an eager, accommodating and accomplished teacher. I credit Ed with any success I've had or as Ed would say "contributing to the delinquency of a race car driver"