Older Driver Safety Week: 5 Tips to Avoid Senior Car Accidents
Every year in December, the United States celebrates Older Driver Safety Week. This initiative by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by older drivers on the road and promote safe driving practices.
With aging, the degradation of vision, reflexes, and cognitive skills may naturally set in, making driving more challenging and increasing the likelihood of traffic accidents. However, if approached proactively with a commitment to safety, senior drivers can continue enjoying the freedom and independence that comes with driving.
Here at Patterson Legal Group, our Kansas car wreck lawyers value promoting the safety of our roads for all drivers. That’s why this Older Driver Safety Week, we would like to share five key tips to help senior drivers avoid car accidents:
1. Take Time This Older Driver Safety Week to Schedule Regular Checkups and Vision Tests
Good health at any age is important for safe driving. Regular checkups with your doctor can help you find and manage any health problems that could affect your driving. You should also get your eyes checked every year. Make sure you are wearing the correct eyeglasses or contact lens prescription and tell your doctor if you notice any changes in your vision.
2. Be Aware of Age-Related Changes for Older Driver Safety Week
With age, there is a decline in vision, particularly in night vision. Reaction times may also be slower. Understanding these changes will help you adapt your driving. Specific examples include:
- Reduce Nighttime Driving: Limit driving after dark when visibility is poorer.
- Increase Following Distance: Allow more space between you and the car in front of you to allow for more time in case of sudden stops.
- Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away and minimize distractions while driving.
- Plan Your Route: Choose familiar routes with good lighting and wide lanes.
3. Evaluate Your Medications
Certain medications can have side effects that can impair your driving ability. This may include drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed reflexes. Always discuss potential side effects of medications with your doctor and pharmacist. Never drive under the influence of any medication that could impair your judgment.
4. Enroll in a Defensive Driving Class this Older Driver Safety Week
Defensive driving courses can be very informative to drivers of all ages. Safe driving practices are covered in these courses as much as possible, providing clear knowledge of the kind of risks that may exist out on the road. Many courses are designed particularly to help older drivers review any challenging situations and strategies for safe operation of their vehicle.
5. Alternate Transportation Options
If driving makes you uncomfortable or becomes increasingly challenging, consider seeking other forms of transportation. Whether this is public transportation, a carpool, or rideshare service with friends and family, these can all allow you to stay independent and keep the roads safe.
Contact a Kansas Car Accident Lawyer Today
Here at Patterson Legal Group, we’re proud to give people the information they need to avoid senior car accidents this Older Driver Safety Week, and we’re here for you if you’ve been involved in a car wreck. Our dedicated team of trial lawyers has a proven track record of success in securing settlements for those hurt in accidents in Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma. We will fight for you and your child every step of the way.
Get started today with a free consultation by giving us a call at (888) 687-2400 or filling out an encrypted contact form. You can also connect with our LiveChat representatives. We work under a “no win, no fee” promise, so you won’t pay anything unless we win. Reach out today to begin your free, no obligation consultation.
