Getting Older Driver Safety Checklist

Getting Older Driver Safety Checklist

As we age, our risk of being involved in a road accident increases.

This is why it’s important for all motorists to be especially vigilant about personal safety as they age. The fact that the flexibility and reflexes of an older driver can often deteriorate with time adds a level of risk to driving activities.

Regular medical checkups help you stay healthy during this phase of life. But you can also take other measures when getting behind the wheel.

This getting older driver safety checklist outlines simple precautions seniors should consider before venturing out on the roads.

Read on for more details!

Important Questions to Ensure Safety Before Driving

This is part of the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) Safe Driving for Elders program. It is an hour-long presentation for drivers 50 years old and older.

Before you get in the driver’s seat, consider the following questions:

  1. Do you have good vision at night or dusk?
  2. Do other cars’ headlights interfere with your vision?
  3. Are passing trucks or motorcycles intimidating you easily?
  4. Do you find it challenging to read road signs?
  5. Do you have trouble seeing the police officer on detail near construction zones or reading instruction detours?
  6. Do you have trouble maintaining the posted speed limit?
  7. When driving, do you ever feel sleepy or have trouble focusing?
  8. Do you frequently become lost on once-familiar roads?
  9. Do you frequently overlook fundamentals like turning on the headlights and fastening your seatbelt?
  10. Do you doubt your parking abilities? Can you still parallel park in a straight line?
  11. Are you unsure of your reactions and reflexes? Is it challenging to respond quickly in some circumstances, such as when braking to avoid a collision?

If you find yourself answering yes to many of these questions, you may want to consider driving less or not at all. Drivers who voluntarily surrender their licenses are eligible for a free Massachusetts identification card.

For more information, call the Registry of Motor Vehicles at (617) 351-4500 or 1-800-858-3926.

Getting Older Driver Safety Checklist: Additional Essential Things To Keep in Mind

Aside from asking yourself the list of questions above, there are other important things to check before you hit the road.

Here are some of them:

Always check the condition of your vehicle

Take a close look at your car.

Is your car too old to function well?

Are the brakes in good condition?

Using a deteriorated vehicle is dangerous. There are newer models of cars with many safety features that are very helpful to drivers, young or old.

Here are some examples of the safety features:

  • backup cameras
  • safety restraints
  • airbags
  • impact warning lights and sounds
  • hands-free telephones
  • GPS
  • and automatic emergency braking.

How are you feeling?

Your current mood and state of mind are also important to consider before driving. Make a temp check of yourself.

Are you too angry to think straight? 

Is your mind preoccupied with stressful thoughts?

Before you start your car, wait until the mood has passed. Strong emotions can distract you from driving safely, so always keep in mind to relax first and take a deep breath.

Getting older is a natural part of life, and while it can be challenging to accept, it also means that we must adjust our driving habits accordingly.

This comprehensive list provides seniors with the tools they need to be safe and secure on the road.

In addition to the checklist, if you ever need help, please contact us at Northeast-MetroWest Insurance agency. Our specialized insurance representative will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

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