For each and every senior citizen out their driving on the roadways, fear can oftentimes become the norm.
While they still may be good drivers in their minds or the minds of others, fear begins to creep in as they lose some of their skills. Whether it is reaction times or judging distances properly, some seniors begin to put themselves and others in harm’s way. As a result, injuries and even death can occur.
With that being the case, it is important for senior citizens and automakers and those supplying parts for the auto industry to stand up and act.
By doing all they can to make for a safer driving experience each and every time, seniors and those tied to the auto industry help prevent accidents.
Family members must also monitor their loved ones as they age; making sure driving is still a good idea at the time.
If you’re a senior citizen, are you up to speed on the different ways you can stay safe out there on the roads?
Never Rest on Practicing Safety
In order for senior citizens to get home safely each and every time they drive, remember the following tips:
- Awareness – For starters, senior citizens must always be aware of their surroundings when getting behind the wheel. Although there are many seniors out there in their 70s, 80’s etc. with good awareness skills, there are also many struggling with such needs. As a result, the latter group can be a danger to themselves and others on the roads. Anyone getting up there in age should make sure they feel total awareness when they drive. This means having good reaction times, being able to assess a potential danger in a matter of seconds, and being confident in getting around to wherever they need to go. If they have trouble with that last item, it can lead to accidents from a simple loss of focus when lost;
- Maintenance – As one gets older, they may not have the same energy to keep their vehicles in good running shape as they did at a younger age. A result of this can be letting their car or truck slowly go downhill. Do your best to have regular maintenance visits for your vehicle, looking at such important areas as the brakes, tires, fluid levels. Also make sure your windows are always clean and no discernible cracks are there (see more below);
- Newer technology – Even though many older drivers are not up to speed on all the recent technology to make vehicles safer, it doesn’t hurt them to learn a little bit about it. For example, back-up cameras make for safer driving experiences. With such a device in your vehicle, you are better able to navigate your way out of your driveway or a crowded parking lot, the latter of which is a haven for accidents. Any device that can make your ride a safer one should be part of your regular driving routine.
Can You Clearly See the Road?
- Your view of the road – There is an old joke that some senior citizens (especially shorter women) would best be served sitting on a couple of phone books to see over the steering wheel. Given roadway safety is no joking matter; make sure no matter your sex that you can properly see behind the wheel. If necessary, have someone clean your windows regularly for you, allowing you to have a clear view of the road. Also, many senior citizens end up dealing with vision problems through the years. Have regular eye exams to make sure you are not having vision issues when operating a vehicle;
- If in an accident – Finally, while you always hope you avoid accidents, they happen to countless drivers (old and young) on a daily basis. If you are in an accident, make sure you pull safely off to the side of the road. Always have a cell phone with you for emergencies, especially if your vehicle has a breakdown. Lastly, if you are involved in an accident, be sure to get all the necessary information from the other driver or drivers. You should also have your vehicle thoroughly checked out by a mechanic before using it again. Not only do accidents tend to make your auto insurance rates go up, but they could leave your vehicle less safe to drive moving forward.
As a senior citizen, what are you doing to make for a safe driving experience each and every time out on the roads?