It began with a simple bike ride.
A group of children, laughing and full of life, pedaled through the quiet streets of La Rochelle. Then, in an instant, everything changed.
An 83-year-old driver, going the wrong way, crashed into them.
Several children were injured. The aftermath was devastating—chaotic, surreal, and heartbreaking.
Now, a difficult question echoes louder than ever: When does driving become too dangerous?
Is there an age when it’s no longer safe to be behind the wheel? Or is age just a number when it comes to road safety?
There are no easy answers.
This debate has simmered for years—because it’s not just about numbers or laws. It’s about people. Grandparents. Parents. Friends. Neighbors.
People who’ve driven for decades without incident. People whose independence and identity are closely tied to their ability to drive.
But aging brings change. Slower reflexes. Diminished eyesight. Cognitive shifts.
And the statistics don’t lie.
According to France’s Road Safety Authority…