Inquiry into death of Xander Irvine to consider safeguards for older drivers

A fatal accident inquiry into the death of a toddler hit by an elderly driver in Edinburgh will question if enough safeguards are in place when older people are renewing their licenses.

Xander Irvine was walking with his mother Victoria, 37, when he was knocked down on Morningside Road in June 2020 by an elderly woman.

The red Kia mounted the pavement and crashed into a shop front.

Xander was taken to hospital but suffered fatal injuries. His mother was also injured.

Edith Duncan, 91, was charged with causing death by dangerous driving and driving without insurance but died in May 2021 before standing trial.

The death is said to have occurred in “circumstances giving rise to serious public concern” with the Fatal Accident Inquiry to begin properly in August.

There was a preliminary hearing at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on Thursday, April 11.

The inquiry will seek to establish what precautions could have been taken to prevent Xander’s death.

Current DVLA rules mean once a driver reaches 70, they need to renew their licence every three years.

No driving tests need to be re-taken, but a health declaration must be made, and any disabilities or conditions that affect driving – such as sight loss, MS or dementia must be reported.

If not, the driver can be fined, or if an accident occurs, their insurance may not be valid.

On Thursday, Xander’s family said the loss has been devastating but they were relieved there will be an inqury into their beloved son’s death.