We are all aware and acknowledge that public safety is paramount priority.
We recognize the fact that seniors need to be scrutinized a little more diligently than the general public, something we will all have to accept at one time.
Taking away a persons ability to have the freedom of movement and independence can hit some people real hard.
My father had his licence for 72 years. Never was involved in an accident and I don’t recall him ever getting a speeding ticket.
He had experienced good health, no issues, no pills, until very recently when he suffered a series of convulsions related to a stroke. It shocked us all as we were planning to dance on his 90th birthday this summer. Miraculously he was released from Guelph 48 hours latter. No serious side effects but certainly had an impact on the man.
He was fully aware and accepting that he would have to give up his drivers licence and was prepared to do so once he got back on his feet. He had spoken with his doctor and promised not to drive as he certainly did not ever want to hurt any one.
My father did not lose the right to drive due to a criminal conviction and has never been involved with the law.
One week after his release he received a letter in the mail from the Ontario Ministry of Transport. He was instructed to hand in his licence within 4 business days or face up to $50,000.0 in fines and 6 months in jail.
really.
Please take a moment and try to realize the shock and negative impact this would have on a person, especially at 90 years of age. He was always on the right side of the law and paid his taxes on time with no questions asked.
He had to hand deliver this callous letter along with his licence to the Ministry office and say good by to your independence after 72 years of perfect driving record.
I do believe this situation could very easily have and should have been handled in a more appropriate manner.
How insensitive to send a person such a threatening letter as the first notice within days of suffering an unexpected uncontrollable illness
There is no doubt in my mind the threatening impact this situation had on my father.
He suffered a second debilitating stroke that afternoon.
Al Bartlett
Al Bartlett