As the baby
boomers head en masse into their senior years, they have more options than ever
to help them stay on the road longer and safer. It's not just about protecting
drivers, either: Other drivers and pedestrians are also at risk. Auto insurance premiums will also be affected
adversely if a senior driver has a crash. Here are ten tips that can make a
real difference:
- Rate yourself. Are you as road-ready
as you think you are? The American Automobile Association Foundation (AAAF), for
instance, has an online self-assessment for drivers 55 and older.
- See things clearly. Because vision
deteriorates progressively as we age, it's critical to get vision checked
regularly. Be sure to tell your eye doctor that you plan to keep driving.
- Get moving. Reflexes also slow in
our senior years. Exercise will help improve muscle tone and reaction time.
- Use your brain. You've heard of
"brain fitness"? Software programs such as DriveSharp train drivers to react faster and cut crash risk
significantly.
- Take a seat. That stereotype of the
little old man or lady who can barely see over the steering wheel exists for a
reason - older folks aren't seated properly in their car. As basic as it may
sound, there's quite a lot that goes into correct posture, which directly
affects the line of vision, the ability to react quickly when needed, or even
reach the pedals. Car Fit will help you be seated properly
adjusting everything from mirrors to seat belt position to make sure you've got
the best possible position.
- Beware the intersection. The most
fatal crashes for older drivers happen at intersections, and left-hand turns
are particularly tricky. Take a passenger along to watch the way you handle
them. If possible, practice negotiating difficult intersections when traffic is
light, and then graduate to rush hour.
- Maintain your car. Simple, but true:
A car that isn't well maintained isn't safe. Get your car serviced at the
recommended intervals in your owner's manual. Always properly inflate your
tires, use high-quality motor oil, and ensure that steering, transmission, and
brake fluids are at appropriate levels.
- Buy right. Some cars are better for
seniors than others, and we're not just talking Buicks. So when you're looking
for a new or used car, look at the lists of "Best Cars for Seniors"
from different automotive Web sites. Adjustable pedals, easy entry/exit,
automatic headlights, and backup cameras are just a few of the senior-friendly
features that make a difference. Then, take the time to go over these features
and use them properly.
- Consult the experts. The National
Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) developed a comprehensive
online guide, Driving Safety While Aging Gracefully
featuring a wealth of information, resources, and links. The AAAF also
has a tremendously useful site, SeniorDrivers.org.
- Go back to school. Attend a
defensive driving class or a self-help class. The American Association of
Retired Persons (AARP) offers classes, as do many local driving schools. Check
your auto coverage for a “The Mature Driver Discount”.
It's a discount for which a mature driver (age 55 or higher, varying by state)
who has successfully completed a voluntary defensive driving course recognized
by the applicable state's Department of Motor Vehicles or Licensing. If your
insurance company doesn't offer a discount for mature drivers, it's time to
shop around.
This
article is sponsored by 21st Century Insurance.
Jody DeVere
President & CEO
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