›

elderly driver

24066632406663 20 Posts
in HR & Employment Law Vote Up0Vote Down
Looking for any advice or input on the following:
We have a large amount of drivers that operate passenger vans (
transporting elderly clients). What are our legal rights regarding age limits on a driver - we have one that is approximately 80 years old. My concern is that with his limited mobility and dexterity - that he can't possibly respond appropriately in traffic (while transporting other elderly citizens)placing himself and others in danger.
This is obviously a sticky situation - wondering if anyone had any opinions or ideas on the situation.
Share on Facebook Share on Twitter

Comments

  • 2 Comments sorted by Votes Date Added
  • SystemSystem 5,885 Posts
    PMVote Up0Vote Down
    To avoid age discrimination, you need to base your decisions solely on his ability. If you have reason to believe his skills are inadequate, get a concrete evaluation, like a driving test, or have a supervisor ride along with him. But you don't want to single him out for this treatment solely because of his age.

    James Sokolowski
    Senior Editor
    M. Lee Smith Publishers
    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter
  • Margaret MorfordMargaret Morford 1,143 Posts
    PMVote Up0Vote Down
    James' suggestion is a good one. Make sure though the supervisor doesn't just single this guy out (or just the older drivers) to ride along with. Your supervisor ought to ride along with the all drivers periodically to check them out. Or set up an annual testing arrangement for all drivers.

    One question...Don't your drivers have to have Commercial Drivers Licenses to drive? If so, aren't you under DOT regulations, which requires a physical (eye exam, reflexes, etc.)

    Margaret Morford
    theHRedge
    615-371-8200
    [email]mmorford@mleesmith.com[/email]
    [url]http://www.thehredge.net[/url]
    Share on Facebook Share on Twitter
Sign In or Register to comment.