Drivers given 'peace of mind' amid calls for elderly fitness tests and a ban on carrying passengers

Following several high-profile accidents, many road safety experts are now in favour of introducing a Graduated Driving Licence (GDL) which would place restrictions on those who are newly behind the wheel.

Some of the most popular measures included in the proposals would prevent young motorists from carrying same-aged passengers for at least six months.

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This would help them concentrate on the road and avoid distractions while they may still have confidence issues when driving. Other suggestions include a zero tolerance for alcohol when driving, as well as a curfew to prevent travelling during the night.

Similarly, there have been calls for new requirements which could see elderly motorists have to undergo more rigorous testing or renew their licence more frequently.

Eyesight problems and cognitive issues have been given as reasons for notable incidents over the last 12 months, prompting calls for new rules to be introduced to protect motorists.

Following the death of Xander Irvine, 3, Sheriff Principal Ross said drivers over the age of 80 should not be granted a licence renewal unless they successfully take a "short initial cognitive assessment".

Speaking to GB News, Alexandre Cerret, the founder of Cerret, about how technology can help motorists of any age stay safe behind the wheel at all times.

He said: "Apart from if you buy a £300,000 car with an SOS button, you can only count on your phone if you crash."

The founder of the company highlighted that in some incidents, where the car may be upside down or in a difficult position, drivers may be unable to get to their phones in order to call for help.

Technological advancements, including the brand Cerret, could help motorists if they are in such a situation. Cerret allows people to send an alert to loved ones if they are in danger by tapping a bracelet twice.

If they are within 15 metres of their phone, they will be able to send their contact details, location and other information to close contacts and the emergency services.

Cerret founded the brand following a loved one's assault, with the aim of providing solutions for people who may feel helpless in similar situations.

The Cerret app allows people to notify their loved ones with a phone call, message and live location for 48 hours, ensuring they can be helped as soon as possible. It will also share the location and incident with other users within 500 metres.

One customer, Jeffrey, said he purchased the Cerret bracelet as a medical device for an elderly relative who lives in a more remote area.

He said: "It gives me peace of mind knowing he can easily alert us in case of a fall or other urgent situations."

Alexandre Cerret reiterated the importance of safety when people are behind the wheel as other road users may not be as safety conscious.

A Department for Transport spokesperson told GB News: "Whilst we are not considering Graduated Driving Licences, we absolutely recognise that young people are disproportionately victims of tragic incidents on our roads, and we are considering other measures to tackle this problem and protect young drivers."

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Similarly, a DVLA spokesperson said: "Road safety is our absolute priority and we are carefully considering the sheriff’s recommendations.

"All drivers must ensure that they meet the medical standards for driving and notify us of the onset or worsening of a medical condition affecting their ability to drive."