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'OVER-CONFIDENCE' is one of the main car crash risk factors in the over-65s, according to research by the Spanish Drivers' Observatory (DUCIT).

Nine in 10 motorists of retirement age, when questioned, called themselves 'very good drivers' and said they were 'capable of dealing with dangerous situations' when at the wheel.

According to DUCIT's data, whilst drivers over 65 are far less likely to be fined for speeding or drink- and drug-driving, they tend to overestimate their road skills, believing they are better than they actually are because of their extensive experience and high mileage.

Middle-aged motorists do not realise or accept that their reaction times are slower than when they were much younger adults, their concentration ability reduced, and their faculties are less responsive, with hearing and eyesight being less sharp, and that they are more likely to get tired quicker or be afflicted with muscular and joint pains.