When Is It Time To Stop Driving?

Staying on the road to safety may be harder for many elderly drivers than they realize.

The Danger According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, senior citizens account for only 9 percent of the population but almost 14 percent of fatal traffic accidents. As people age, their driving patterns change. Retirement, different schedules and new activities affect when and where they drive. Although most older adults drive safely because they have a lot of experience behind the wheel, when they are involved in crashes, they may be hurt more seriously than younger drivers. Many see driving as an important part of staying independent, and people 70 and older tend to keep their licenses longer and drive more than in the past.

What To Do Elderly drivers should have a trusted doctor check their eyes and reflexes to determine whether they should be driving anymore. Explore the possibilities. Are there solutions that could keep you driving safely longer, such as getting new glasses or only driving during the day?

Driving Courses The Sunshine Safety Council, 150 N. Beach Street, Daytona Beach will conduct a Coaching The Mature Driver course from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at their office on various dates throughout the county. The course meets Florida requirements for an auto liability insurance discount for licensed drivers 55 and older. Cost is $10. Please call 386.253.6400, ext. 123 for dates and locations.

Alternative Transportation Try to arrange other ways to get around so you do not feel trapped at home. Remember the money you will save on insurance and maintenance—which can be used for buses and taxis. Desiding to give up driving is a hard desicsion, but it could save your life and the lives of others.