Safe Driving Tips for Seniors

Aging Population

• As the population continues to age, more and more seniors will be sharing the roads with everyone else. And while most seniors are perfectly capable drivers, it is true that reaction time, coordination and other elements tend to diminish with age.

• Some seniors worry about causing an accident, but there are some safe driving tips that can help senior drivers arrive safely and feel comfortable behind the wheel.

Make a Plan

• Driving as a senior doesn’t mean you should stay out of the car, it just means you should a little more thoroughly before you venture out. Take the time to plan your route, stay away from inclement weather and drive during the daylight hours whenever possible.

• Try to avoid peak traffic hours and stick to roads you’re familiar with, when it’s possible. If you’re on medications that cause drowsiness, don’t take them before you plan to get in the car. Well-planned trips will reduce the probability of accidents and will help keep your auto insurance rates on the low side.

Check Vision & Hearing Regularly

• Vision and hearing are two senses that diminish with age, and are also important to safe driving. Vision problems like macular degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma can make night driving difficult, if not impossible. Stick to a regular testing schedule so you can catch any problems at the start.

Keep Up with Chronic Conditions

• It’s important to manage any chronic health conditions at any age, but it’s even more important for seniors. Conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, or other conditions that affect driver safety must be under control.

• Follow any instructions that your doctor lays down for you, or you may find yourself worrying about more than just renewing your auto insurance.

Move Your Body

• If you make the effort to stay active into your senior years, your strength and flexibility will remain intact. Simple actions like turning the wheel, looking over your shoulder or quickly applying the brakes will be easier, and the safety of your driving will improve.

• Try to walk whenever possible, play a leisurely sport or join an exercise class. Anything that keeps your body moving and works both your upper and lower body will help.

Update Your Driving Skills

• If you find that your skills may have diminished over the years, think about taking a refresher course that’s designed for older drivers. Depending on where you live, you may be required to renew your driver’s license at regular intervals once you reach a certain age. In Ontario, the age is 80, and the interval is every two years.

Consider Alternatives

• Keep in mind that driving yourself around isn’t the only way to get around. If you follow the tips listed above, your time on the road will be a lot safer, but you do have alternatives.

 • If you’re having trouble driving yourself, look into volunteer driver programs,

carpooling, public transit, taxis or family members. If you keep safety on the top of your mind every step of the way, your auto insurance premiums will stay low and you’ll always know whether to drive or not.