The Close‑Call of Hong Kong’s 97‑Year‑Old Driver
Just a few minutes before the lights were dimming on Thursday, Oct. 4, Frances Joan Leong found herself in a real-life movie scene. Picture this: a 97‑year‑old lady trying to park her trusty Honda in front of a Marriott hotel, only to brush up against a shiny Maserati and then slam into the building’s wall. Luckily, the Maserati was empty, and no one was hurt.
What Went Down
- Frances Leong was braking into the hotel parking lot when her Honda nudged a parked Maserati.
- She then accidentally hit the Marriott’s wall, trapping herself in her own car.
- Paramedics arrived, rescued her, and checked her out—she passed the breath‑alyser test and didn’t need hospital treatment.
The Honda suffered a couple of dents up front, while the Maserati’s rear got a little dented too—just a wobble that the driver of the Maserati would probably laugh about. The exact cost of repairs? The article didn’t say if Leong had to foot the bills.
The Law in Hong Kong
In the Big City, drivers aged 70 or older must submit a medical exam before renewing their licence. Depending on the review, they can get a one‑year or a three‑year licence. So, if you’re older than 70, remember to keep that doctor’s report up to date.
Japan’s Turn‑to‑Seniors Problem
Across the globe in Japan, the issue of elderly drivers has been kicking up a storm. In May, a 90‑year‑old woman’s drive turned into a tragedy when she flipped onto a curb at a busy Tokyo crossroad, killing a person and injuring three more. According to the National Police Agency, drivers 75+ were behind 459 fatal crashes in 2016—13 % of all incidents, a jump from 7.4 % a decade earlier.
Japan’s “Silly” Incentives
Not to be outdone, Japan’s companies are rolling out quirky perks to nudify seniors into handing over their licences: cheaper funeral plans, dumpling discounts, and even free or cheap taxi and bus rides. If you’re 75+ and still vroom‑vrooming, you might find yourself tempted by those ramen freebies.
Takeaway
It’s a funny, yet cautionary tale: age isn’t a guarantee of absolute safety—nor does a shiny car offer guaranteed protection. If you’re old enough to drive, keep your health in check and remember that sometimes, the “wall” is just a metaphor for the limits we all must respect.
