SGJapan plans to increase the difficulty of driving tests for older motorists, particularly those over 75 years old, to address rising traffic accidents caused by elderly drivers confusing the accelerator with the brake. The National Police Agency (NPA) reported that 18% of fatal accidents in 2023 involved drivers in this age group, with those having prior traffic violations causing more than twice as many incidents compared to those without. The proposed changes include requiring these drivers to demonstrate proper use of accelerator and brake pedals through a 'direction change' maneuver during practical exams. The decision comes after data showed existing tests from 2022 were insufficient in reducing accidents, highlighted by recent cases such as an 85-year-old driver killing two pedestrians in Nagoya and another incident in 2019 where an 87-year-old driver caused multiple injuries due to pedal confusion.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about a policy change aimed at improving road safety, without overtly favoring any political ideology. It cites official statistics and reports from the National Police Agency, maintaining a balanced tone by focusing on the issue rather than taking a partisan
