New 'S' Plate Stickers Aim to Ease Tensions for Older Drivers on the Road
A new blue 'S' plate sticker aims to signal when an older driver is on the road. Boyd Steel, the creator, hopes it will encourage patience and cut down on road rage incidents. The voluntary sticker, available for purchase in packs of two at $14.50 each, is now on sale.
Steel got the idea from his nana, who drove calmly into her early 80s. He believes the sticker could help older drivers feel safer behind the wheel. Many seniors depend on driving to stay independent and connected with others.
Not everyone supports the idea. Gayle Chambers of Grey Power doubts the stickers will make much difference. Meanwhile, NZTA has not taken a position on the proposal.
Steel expects most buyers will be adult children purchasing them for elderly parents. The stickers are not mandatory, leaving drivers free to choose whether to display them.
The 'S' plate stickers are now on sale, offering a simple way to identify older drivers. Their impact on road safety and driver behaviour remains to be seen. For now, the initiative relies on voluntary participation and public goodwill.
