Don’t look now, but the person behind the wheel of that shiny new sports car next to you might be somebody’s grandparent, or even great grandparent. Millions of Baby Boomers are reaching retirement age every year, resulting in more senior drivers using our roadways. In fact, a 2013 joint study(1) by the University of Florida and AAA estimated that by 2020 the U.S. will have over 40 million licensed drivers aged 65-and-over. On the flip side, senior drivers present unique safety challenges brought on by the aging process itself. If you’re an older driver, or know one, here are some reliable ways to stay safer on the roads.
Many older drivers have medical conditions that can affect their senses and reaction times, including these:
According to the AAA/University of Florida study, older persons also face a higher risk of being injured, or even killed, in auto accidents because their fragile bodies are more susceptible to injury. Certain prescription and OTC medications can also impair drivers, so it’s important for a senior to consult with their doctor before hitting the road. Because of these physical limitations many older drivers choose to limit their driving hours, or avoid driving after dark altogether.
Here are 5 ways that seniors can help improve their odds of not being involved in an accident:
Hearing and vision loss tend to occur as we age, so for seniors it’s wise to have a doctor test those key senses every year. Impaired hearing could cause an older driver to pull out in front of a train or emergency vehicle, while compromised vision can interfere with their ability to see oncoming vehicles, pedestrians and traffic signs. An audiologist may recommend hearing aids if a hearing deficiency is found, while an eye doctor might suggest limiting driving to daylight hours, or prescribe corrective lenses, when a senior’s vision is not what it used to be.
Regular exercise helps improve strength and flexibility, both of which come in handy while driving. Staying physically fit makes it easier for a senior to turn the steering wheel, look over their shoulder, and to carry out other movements while driving and parking. Walking, water aerobics, Yoga and Tai Chi are healthy low-impact exercises for older people to engage in, with the added benefit they could help avoid accidents later.
Seniors should listen to their bodies when it comes to driving limitations. For example, if their hands hurt while gripping the wheel due to arthritis, using a steering wheel cover will make holding and turning it more comfortable. And, a vehicle with a larger and easier-to-read dashboard display might be safer for someone with a visual impairment. Most newer cars now come with safety advancements like lane change and blind spot sensors that alert older drivers when dangers are present.
When there’s snow, ice or poor visibility, it’s probably best for seniors to stay off the road. Bad night vision means avoid driving after dark. Driving when one is tired or upset is never good, and when it comes to “conditions”, drivers of all ages should never get behind the wheel while under the influence of mind-altering substances like alcohol and some medications.
Just because someone has held a driver’s license for 50 years doesn’t mean they’re still capable. It’s not a bad idea for drivers over 65 to take a driving refresher course periodically to keep their skills sharp, and doing so could also possibly earn them a car insurance discount. If you’re the family member of a senior who’s driving has got you worried it might be time for them to turn over their car keys and start using public transportation or a ride-sharing service instead.
Even when using these safe driving tips, drivers of all ages can still be involved in accidents. When one happens to you, take your vehicle to a collision repair shop nearby featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once there, ASE and I-CAR certified technicians will restore your vehicle like-new again promptly and reliably. Most work directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their repairs to put your mind at ease.
Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.
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