{
  "id": 12455133,
  "title": "Costa del Sol expat Steve asks: When is it time to give up driving?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/costa-del-sol-expat-steve-asks-when-is-it-time-to-give-up-driving",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-06T19:54:09.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Euro Weekly News",
    "slug": "euro-weekly-news",
    "url": "https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/10/06/costa-del-sol-expat-steve-asks-when-is-it-time-to-give-up-driving/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Steve Marshall, a long-time expat living in Costa del Sol, has reflected on the question of when it might be time to give up driving. Reflecting over his morning cup of tea, Steve recalled how significant getting his driver’s license felt when he passed it the second time around. He fondly remembered the independence and sense of accomplishment that came with that milestone. However, as he has aged, Steve’s perspective on older motorists has evolved. He has come to view the issue with a more nuanced and understanding eye. Steve stresses that there is no single age at which someone should automatically stop driving. Instead, he believes that older motorists should conduct a thorough self-assessment, considering factors like their vision, reaction times, parking abilities, medication usage, reduced mobility, and overall fatigue levels. These elements can significantly impact one’s ability to drive safely and responsibly. Steve acknowledges that acknowledging these factors can be challenging, especially when driving has long been synonymous with one’s independence. He also cautions that financial considerations must be taken into account. The costs associated with car ownership, such as insurance, taxes, and maintenance, can become burdensome, particularly for those on a fixed pension income. Steve himself faced a similar dilemma. Even though he uses his car less frequently than he once did, the annual insurance premium alone exceeded 300 euros. Steve’s car is still essential for his daily needs due to the lack of a nearby bus route. However, he questions whether some older motorists continue driving vehicles that are larger than necessary. Steve admits that he drives a mature estate car, which, while reliable, could be replaced with a smaller vehicle that would serve his needs equally well. He believes that older drivers who continue to use larger, more comfortable cars might create a false sense of security. Steve notes that these large vehicles can isolate drivers from the actual conditions of the road, potentially leading to dangerous situations. One of Steve’s most important points is that the decision to stop driving should not be viewed as losing independence. He emphasizes that if an individual feels the time has come to relinquish their car, it should not be seen as an act of surrendering autonomy. Instead, he encourages exploring alternative modes of transportation that can help maintain a sense of freedom and social engagement. Steve’s message to those facing this daunting decision is ultimately positive and encouraging. He urges everyone to live their best lives, even if it means letting go of their “trusty metal friend.”",
  "summary": "For many people, passing their driving test represents freedom, independence and the start of a new chapter. For long-time Costa […]",
  "key_points": [
    "Steve Marshall reflects on when to stop driving as a Costa del Sol expat.",
    "He emphasizes self-assessment based on vision, reaction times, and mobility.",
    "Driving should not equate to losing independence; alternatives encouraged."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}