With nearly 1,600,000 Pennsylvania drivers over the age of 65, travel in a private vehicle is the most common mode of transportation by these older drivers because it is safe and convenient.
According to tripnet.org, many seniors self regulate their driving traveling only on familiar routes, during daylight hours, and in areas of lower traffic volume. Even with self regulation, many agencies promote the need to update senior driving skills.
AARP issued these Ten Signs it’s Time to Limit Your Driving:
1. Almost crashing, with frequent “close calls”
2. Finding dents and scrapes on the car, on fences, mailboxes, garage doors, curbs, etc.
3. Getting lost, especially in familiar locations
4. Having trouble seeing or following traffic signals, road signs, and pavement markings
5. Responding more slowly to unexpected situations, or having trouble moving their foot from the gas to the brake pedal; confusing the two pedals
6. Misjudging gaps in traffic at intersections and on highway entrance and exit ramps
7. Experiencing road rage or causing other drivers to honk or complain
8. Easily becoming distracted or having difficulty concentrating while driving
9. Having a hard time turning around to check the rear view while backing up or changing lanes
10. Receiving multiple traffic tickets or “warnings” from law enforcement officers
If you notice one or more of these cautionary signs in yourself, or in a loved one who is driving, you might want to register for a driver-improvement course, such as the online courses offered by AARP Driver Safety.