Safety Tips for Older Drivers (and some apply to everyone!)
1. Maintain your mobility. Have a fitness routine, one that you like! Dancing, walking, aerobics, golf, yoga, etc. Get up and move every 10 minutes if sitting! Would you be able to get out the car window
in an emergency?
2. Keep your car in good working condition with regular checkups, and oil changes. Make sure you can see out, and also recommend you have AAA or some service if you have a flat tire or need help.
3. Plan ahead. Avoid driving in dangerous conditions; dark if your eyesight has difficulty. Plan your routes and use well lit roads where you can. Tell someone where you are going if new.
4. Take a refresher driving course. AARP has an online offer and can save you money on insurance too!
5. Carry safety items with you too…your insurance card, emergency numbers, flashlight, water, blanket, etc.
6. Know your own limitations. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable physically or mentally, get help or ride with someone else. Realize there may come a time to turn in your keys. It is tough, but safer for everyone.
7. Get regular checkups for eyes, hearing, etc. and manage chronic conditions. You want to be able to see and hear when on the roads and not be a danger to others. Beware that some medications could affect your driving too!
8. Limit cell phone usage when driving! It is distracting. Most accidents are caused by wrong decisions. Pull over if you need to talk. And texting is against the law at least in Colorado, and various states have different laws around cell phones!