Final answer:
It is true that most older drivers can safely operate a motor vehicle, as many maintain their skills and compensate for age-related changes with cautious habits and experience. Age alone is not a determinant of driving ability, and stereotypes such as 'DWE' are misleading in assessing an individual's capability to drive safely.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that 'most older drivers are quite capable of safely operating a motor vehicle' is generally true. Age does not necessarily equate to decreased driving ability. Many older drivers maintain their driving skills and are able to safely operate a motor vehicle. This is supported by data showing that a significant portion of the driving population includes those who are 65 or over, with 13.61 percent of females and 13.53 percent of males falling within this age bracket, indicating that older individuals continue to be active drivers.
Additionally, while driver error contributes to approximately 54 percent of all fatal auto accidents, this is not solely attributed to older adults. It's essential to consider individual abilities and circumstances rather than making broad generalizations about a group's driving capabilities. Age can bring changes that affect driving, but many older adults compensate for these with experience, cautious driving habits, and avoiding high-risk driving situations.
Stereotypes, like the one encountered by Peter about 'DWE' or driving while elderly, can be misleading and do not accurately represent the abilities of all older drivers. It's crucial to recognize that capability varies individually, and being elderly does not automatically mean one is an unsafe driver.