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Driving Safety

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Americans love their cars. They give us freedom and independence. But for most of us, there comes a time when we shouldn't drive anymore. Age-related changes to our vision, hearing, reflexes, and strength affect how we drive. We may become a danger to ourselves and others.

When is it time to limit driving or get off the road for good? Here are a few warning signs:

• You feel uncomfortable and nervous when you drive.
• Dents and scrapes on the car from multiple run-ins with telephone poles, mailboxes, curbs, and other objects.
• Trouble staying in your lane.
• Other drivers honk at you constantly.
• Cars and pedestrians seem to appear out of nowhere.
• An increased pattern of accidents or "near-misses."
• You frequently get lost — even in a familiar area.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Age Page: Older Drivers — This fact sheet discusses ways in which older persons can drive safely.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/drivers.htm

2.   Older Adult Drivers: Fact Sheet — This fact sheet discusses the occurance, risk factors and consequences some older adults face when driving.

   http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/older.htm

3. AARP Driver Safety (Copyright © AARP) — This internet site provdies older persons with information regarding driving instruction, taking online classes and volunteering with AARP driver safety.

   www.aarp.org/families/driver_safety

4. Drivers 55 Plus: Self-Rating Form (Copyright © AAA Foundation) — This questionnaire help older adults locate areas in which physical and mental abilities call for a change in driving habits and skills.

   http://www.aaafoundation.org/quizzes/index.cfm?button=driver55

Organizations

1.   Administration on Aging, HHS
2.   National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, DOT
3. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety-Senior Traffic Safety

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated March 5, 2009.