Safety and Independence: Driving Tips for Seniors

As parents age, many adult children tend worry about their aging parent’s
health and independence, particularly when it comes to driving. Voicing
such concerns to older adults can sometimes create an uncomfortable situation
as driving is viewed as an expression of freedom, independence, and competence.
It can also be a vital part of these elderly adults’ economic livelihood
as many are staying in the workforce longer than previous generations.

Despite such concerns, the U.S. Department of Transportation states fatalities
in crashes involving older drivers is declining, citing a 13% drop from
2003 to 2012. Experts believe this is due to a combination of safer vehicles
and healthier seniors. While this decrease should provide some comfort
for those concerned about their loved one’s driving, intersections
continue to pose challenges for older drivers. The Insurance Institute
for Highway Safety states that adults 70 and older have the most trouble
looking, but not seeing oncoming traffic or potential obstacles, most
often when making left turns at intersections.

Here our Missouri personal injury lawyers share tips for keeping Missouri’s
older drivers safe.

• Have eyes checked once a year. Many errors made by older drivers stem from issues typically associated
  with aging, including perceptual abilities. In fact, highway safety research
  claims 2/3 of
  accidents involving older drivers are due to inadequate surveillance errors. Having
  your eyes checked regularly will help keep your vision prescription up-to-date.
  If visual aids such as glasses or corrective lens are required, they should
  be worn at all times while operating a vehicle.
• Review medications with pharmacist. Compared other adult drivers, physical factors involving blackouts, drowsiness,
  or seizures, are common causes of accidents that involve older drivers.
  Understanding the side effects of medications is key to keeping yourself
  and others safe on the road. Discuss the possible side effects of prescription
  and over-the-counter drugs with your pharmacist to see if potentially
  dangerous side effects can be avoided. If not, find an alternative to
  driving by carpooling or requesting a ride from a friend or relative.
• Drive in daylight and good weather. Research has indicated that part of the reduction of older driver accidents
  is because older drivers avoid driving at night or in bad weather. Plan
  outings during day light hours, and if possible, stay home during bad weather.
• Plan your route. Before getting on the road, plan the route you will take. Choose side-streets
  and familiar areas with intersections that have left-turn lanes and traffic arrows.
• Consider carpooling. Carpooling with another driver is a safe alternative to driving. Another
  option includes adding a second passenger who can help navigate the route
  and share the responsibility of checking for on-coming traffic.

For more information on driving safety, turn to
Aaron Sachs & Associates, P.C. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to another’s
negligence, we can pursue compensation on your behalf. Call (417) 777-7777 today!

Call or text 417-777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form