Senior driving – facts and myths


Senior Driving accidents grab headlines more than those of any other age group. This has led many to believe that drivers over the age of 60 are probably the worst drivers on the road. In sharp contrast, statistics released by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) show the safest drivers are found to be between 64 and 69 years old. The highest risk group is actually teenaged male drivers! Senior drivers are however most likely to die in a crash because at their age they are much more frail.


Aging and driving- the popular myths about senior drivers that they are careless on the road, have much slower reflexes and are a danger to others on the road because of their erratic driving have all been proved wrong by in-depth studies in this regard. The biggest thing against seniors is the perception that as bodily functions are affected by advancing age, older drivers are higher risk. The specific physical abilities necessary to be a safe driver like sound vision and hearing, a strong memory, quick reaction time and flexibility, do decline as we grow older, but this rate of decline sharply varies from person to person. Statistics however prove that elder drivers are more likely to receive traffic citations for turning improperly, going through red lights or otherwise failing to yield to traffic signs. Accidents cause more fatalities in this age group, they are more likely to be seriously hurt and require more hospitalization. However, a healthy adult with safe driving habits in his middle years will often mature into a careful senior driver.


Environmental factors – Though these are often amplified in seniors, environmental factors like confusing intersections or unclear road signs are irritants to people of all age groups. Added risk factors are the typically older generation cars, because they have less safety features, but seniors prefer these cars. A well maintained vehicle, with a bigger display panel, one that a person is well oriented to and clearly marked road signals go a long way in helping senior drivers in their driving.


Usually a comprehensive assessment helps ascertain if the senior driver is fit to take his car on the road or needs help. However, talking to a senior about his driving is a sensitive issue and should be taken up with care and empathy.


Driver Assessment: It’s usually a good idea to have senior drivers undergo driving assessment after every few years once they cross 60, if any of the following signs are visible: Sudden problems on the road like abrupt braking or lane changes or generally erratic driving Display of slower reflexes like slower response to road conditions, confusion between the gas and brake pedals and trouble reading road signs Shorter attention and memory spans like forgetting routes, trouble handling change, missing exit signs Increased citations, more visible dents and scrapes on the car.


Senior driver safety classes help refresh driving skills of senior drivers and are usually recommended to most of the drivers who go in for an assessment. Lots of


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