December 5, 2016
Safety Driving Tips for Seniors
By Jonathan Damashek
Posted in
We all know that as we get older, our senses are not as “operational” as they once were. Our hearing, motor skills, and eyesight may deteriorate, and we may need to take extra precautions when we get behind the wheel.
Unfortunately, we often read about accidents caused by seniors who missed a red light or forgot to signal a turn. And no matter what age we are, we are responsible as for avoiding accidents to keep pedestrians, our fellow drivers, and our passengers safe.
Today we share several driving tips for seniors posted by the Mayo Clinic. Help us spread the word to older drivers to help them avoid vehicle accidents.
Stay active: As we get older, it is vital to stay mentally and physically active. Staying physically active will improve your flexibility, which is important when you need to maneuver fast. Staying mentally active will help you think faster when you have to make quick decisions. Look for activities that foster your wellbeing and never stay still.
Have your hearing and vision checked regularly: Even if you think your hearing and vision are fine, it is important to have these vital senses checked on a regular basis as they tend to decline with age.
Follow the rules of the road: As silly as this may seem, many senior drivers think they are still 25 and do not obey speed limits or respect lanes. It is important to stick to the driving guidelines, never rush, and be extremely cautious.
Plan ahead and be prepared: Always check the route before driving. Whether you use a physical map or a GPS, it is important to know the route before hitting the road. Avoid texting, eating or any activity that may distract you while driving. In addition, be prepared for the unexpected and know what to do if a tire blows or your car breaks down in the middle of the road.
Avoid driving at night or under difficult weather conditions. If possible, drive only during daytime and under optimal weather conditions.
Know your limits and update your driving skills: At SeniorDriving.AAA.com you can test your abilities and take courses to improve your driving skills. As a responsible and caring driver, you should be able to realize when you are no longer suited to drive.
And if you or a loved one is injured on the road, contact us today for a free consultation. We will fight for your rights and for the compensation you and your family deserve.