ROAD SAFETY
suggests that you start braking earlier and avoid heavy traffic whenever possible. Medications can also affect your driving ability. The NIH
warns against driving when feeling lightheaded or drowsy and advises reading all medication labels carefully for warnings re- lated to driving. Your pharmacist is happy to answer questions about medications and safe driving. If night vision has become a problem, consider limiting your driving to daylight hours. It may also be helpful to take a defensive driving course to
freshen up skills. Some insurance companies will also lower your rates if you pass such a class.
Time to Assess So how do you know if it’s time to give up your license and ask for a ride? The NIH suggests asking yourself the questions that follow to help determine if it’s time to let someone else take the wheel.
42 | MATTERS OF HEALTH
* Have I been having accidents, even if they are “fender benders?”
* Do other drivers often honk at me?
* Do I get lost, even on roads I know? * Do other cars or people walking seem to appear out of nowhere?
* Do I have trouble moving my foot from the gas to the brake pedal? Do I ever confuse the two?
* Do I get distracted while driving? * Are family and friends worried about my driving? * Do I have trouble staying in my lane?
* Do I drive less because I’m feeling unsure on the road? * Have I been pulled over by a police officer because of my driving?
If you’ve answered yes to one or more of these questions,
consider having a talk with your healthcare provider or taking a driving assessment to see if you’re still safe behind the wheel.
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