Commentary by Frank Schroth
Last Saturday an elderly driver in Cambridge drove his car into a bus stop. Four people including a 4 yr old were inside the shelter. Fortunately, the shelter acted as a shield so when the driver, who thought he was stepping on his brake stepped on the gas and drove into them, they didn’t die. They just went to the hospital for awhile. One bystander said, “It’s like a horror show.” You can find the story and video here.
Some issues are universally local issues and this is one.
The Senate and House each passed legislation to test elderly drivers; but it is being held up in conference. Like anything to do with any legislation in this state, it is completely confusing. But it is at risk and that is a crime. A Milton businessperson had a young relative run down and killed by an elderly driver. A Weymouth officer was also killed by an elderly driver and left his family behind. And on and on and on it goes; accident after accident. And nothing is done.
Senator Joyce, a sponsor of the legislation and longtime advocate of testing elder drivers, appeared on a local news program, Broadside. According to Joyce the House is holding it up and watering it down. You can call the House and urge action at 617-722-2000.
Here is the interview with Senator Joyce