The number of drivers aged 65 and over who voluntarily return their driver’s licenses has been on the rise, according to data from the Road Traffic Authority and police.

Of the 2,194 drivers who turned in their licenses, 74.7 percent were those aged 65 and over. These are drivers who have started the process of renewing their licenses but have chosen to revoke their licenses out of their free will, in consideration that they are no longer fit to drive safely, the authority said, adding that the trend could help prevent traffic accidents.

Licenses can be voluntarily returned through driver’s license test courses or at police stations nationwide.

The number of deaths from traffic accidents caused by senior drivers has risen from 514 in 2007 to 745 last year.