Concerns have been raised by human rights committee MPs in Cyprus regarding high car insurance costs for drivers over 70, which they describe as discriminatory. Independent MP Alexandra Attalides has proposed a bill to amend insurance laws, ensuring fair treatment for elderly drivers.
Attalides highlighted complaints showing insurance hikes of up to 220% without any proven link to driving behavior.
She cited Cyprus police data, which indicates that older drivers are involved in fewer accidents compared to other age groups. The bill aims to prevent excessive premiums and ensure policies are based on driving history rather than age.
MPs from Akel and Disy expressed support for the proposal, with Akel MP Irene Charalambidou vowing to fast-track the bill. She criticized the lack of oversight in how insurers treat elderly drivers and questioned how seniors can remain mobile if they cannot afford insurance.
The debate also revealed that some insurance companies expect older drivers to subsidize the higher risk of younger ones, despite statistics showing seniors are involved in the fewest accidents. The proposal seeks to align Cyprus with other countries where elderly drivers are rewarded with lower premiums due to their careful driving habits.