Drivers Getting Older

By Author: Marcus Stalder
Total Articles: 491
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If you're getting older, there's one simple truth. You have years of driving experience and the odds are you're a lot safer driver than the youngsters. In fact, statistically speaking, drivers in the age range of 55 to 64 are among the safest on the road. Almost all drive within the speed limit and have defensive habits. Eyesight is still good and reflexes fast enough to get out of trouble if an emergency looms. Over 65, the accident statistics show more accidents. Over 75, the accident rate rises faster although it's still less than the rate for those under 24. For those of you who eat statistics for breakfast, older drivers cause about 15% of the fatalities on our roads. Almost all the traffic accidents involving seniors occur during daylight hours or on the weekends. Seniors are off-peak, leisure drivers.

So no doom and gloom. The fact we're getting older is no reason to think of quitting driving. Indeed, the way our cities are built and the pathetic public transport systems, cars are the only way we can get around the place. But we can start taking a few basic steps to prepare ourselves. The first step is to ensure ...
... our vehicle is fit for the purpose. We might start thinking about swivel seats to help get into and out of the vehicle more easily. Hand controls can overcome physical problems.

Fitting a simple cushion can improve posture and help us see the road more clearly, but before you fit any of the new adaptive devices, you should talk with a rehabilitation expert to find out which are the best value for - look for members of the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) and the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). The other factor is to keep your insurer in the picture. If you do adapt your vehicle make sure to send details of the cost so that, if the worst happens and your vehicle is stolen or it's totaled, the fair value includes the cost of replacing the adaptation devices. Remember there are rebate schemes offering up to $1,000 for adaptive devices. If you have a prescription, most states waive the sales taxes and the cost of the equipment is tax deductible.

Think about muscle strength and how easily you can move your head. Can you adjust the foot pedals or change the height of the seats so you can see over the steering wheel more easily? There are solutions for every problem so make sure you get the best advice and, just as important, training in the use of any new devices. This is not a time to be proud. Accept the help. And just to reinforce the need to keep your auto insurance company in the loop. You will hold down your premium rates if you show a clear intention to stay safe on the roads. Indeed, many modifications and training courses may qualify you for a discount. Auto insurance companies want you to be safe (and make no claims) so talk to them to get the best possible deals.