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Driver safety: Top 7 tips for older drivers
No. 5: Drive under optimal conditions
When possible, drive during the daytime, in good weather, on quiet roads and in familiar areas. Plan your route to avoid rush-hour traffic. Delay your trip if the visibility is poor. Beyond road conditions, make sure you're in optimal condition to drive, too. Don't drive if you're tired or angry — and never drive after drinking alcohol.
No. 6: Plan ahead
When you get in your vehicle, be prepared to drive. Plan your route ahead of time so that you don't find yourself trying to read a map while driving. If necessary, call ahead for directions or major landmarks — such as schools, churches or water towers. Avoid distractions such as adjusting the radio, eating or using a cell phone.
No. 7: Update your driving skills
Consider taking a refresher course for older drivers. Updating your driving skills may even earn you a discount on your car insurance, depending on your policy. Look for courses through your local community education program or organizations in your community that serve older adults.
Know when it's time to consider other alternatives
If you become confused while you're driving or you're concerned about your ability to drive safely — or your loved ones or others have expressed concern — consider other alternatives. Perhaps you can take the bus, use a van service or take advantage of other local transportation options. Giving up your car keys doesn't need to end your independence.
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- Tips for safe driving. American Medical Association. http://www.ama-assn.org/ama1/pub/upload/mm/433/tips_for_safe_drivin.pdf. Accessed Dec. 17, 2008.
- Older drivers. National Institute on Aging. http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/drivers.htm. Accessed Dec. 17, 2008.
- The driver rehabilitation specialist. American Medical Association. http://www.ama-assn.org/ama1/pub/upload/mm/433/chapter5.pdf. Accessed Dec. 17, 2008.
- Ladden MD. Approach to the evaluation of older drivers. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Dec. 17, 2008.
- Driving safely while aging gracefully: How is your vision? National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/olddrive/Driving%20Safely%20Aging%20Web/page2.html. Accessed Dec. 31, 2008.
- Driving safely while aging gracefully: How is your physical fitness? National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/olddrive/Driving%20Safely%20Aging%20Web/page3.html. Accessed Dec. 31, 2008.
- Driving safely while aging gracefully: How is your attention and reaction time? National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/olddrive/Driving%20Safely%20Aging%20Web/page4.html. Accessed Dec. 31, 2008.
- Driving safely while aging gracefully: Keep alert to changes. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/people/injury/olddrive/Driving%20Safely%20Aging%20Web/page5.html. Accessed Dec. 31, 2008.
