Staying Safe as an Elderly Driver: A Safe Driving Guide
As you get older, your health begins to deteriorate and you are not as fit as you used to be a few years back. Your eyesight also deteriorates gradually, and this makes simple tasks like driving really difficult for you. You also start to wonder whether you should keep your license or whether you should stop driving altogether.
Well, as long as you take the necessary precautions while driving, it is quite right for you to drive your vehicle. You can also remain safe and keep those around you safe while you are driving. So here we are with a few tips for all the old drivers out there who are willing to drive despite their age restrictions:
Try to remain physically fit
As per the rules and regulations set by the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles office, if you have never had a driver’s license before, then it is mandatory for you to complete the Traffic Law & Substance Abuse Education Course (TLSAE). Only then will you be eligible to take the road test. The course is going to teach you the basic rules of the road and the safety and substance abuse issues related to driving. There are a lot of schools that offer the students courses that will satisfy this exact requirement as well.
Test your hearing and vision regularly.
As you grow old, it may become really hard for you to see and hear. As you know, seeing and hearing are really important for driving. So, you should go for regular vision and hearing tests. This is going to help you understand whether it is safe for you to drive on the streets or not. If there are any minor defects, you can get them rectified by checking the necessary medications.
Try to accept your limitations
It is very important for you to accept your limitations while driving. You should make adjustments to compensate for the limitation. You should also try to make extra efforts to drive safely. Also, drive defensively as this is going to keep your speed limits under control and you will also get a safe driving experience.
Only drive in suitable conditions..
It might not be a really good idea for you to drive in bad weather conditions as it is going to make it all the more difficult for you to see and hear. So, if you see that the weather conditions are not favorable, it is better to skip driving on that day.
Do not get easily distracted.
It is really important for you to avoid any kind of distraction while you are driving. Try to keep yourself as calm as possible. Also, if you are having a really bad day, then you should skip driving on that particular day. This is going to help you out with enhancing your confidence level, and you will also be able to drive really well.
Do not drive alone.
Well, at times, you may start feeling sick. You begin to feel dizzy and uncomfortable. So, keeping all these situations in mind, you should avoid driving alone. Take a friend or a family member along with you. In that way, if your close ones see that you are facing any kind of trouble, they will be able to take the required decision.
Consider getting yourself a new car:
These days, you will find a lot of new cars available on the market that come with added features. These cars are suitable for driving in all conditions. This will also provide you with a lot of other advantages. So, if you feel that your safety is a major concern while you are driving your vehicle and your car is also not in reliable condition, then you can consider purchasing a new car. Here are a few things to think about before buying a new car:
Safety is the main concern while driving. So, make sure that the new car has got all the required safety features installed to give you a better driving experience.
Comfort: The vehicle should provide you with a really comfortable driving experience. It should have adjustable seats. The mirror should also be easily adjustable. This is going to enhance the driving experience.
Technology: Make sure that the car comes with advanced technologies installed in it. This is going to increase your confidence and safety. You will also find it easier to drive on the streets.
How can a family member help?
There are different ways in which your family members can help you out while you are driving. You can ask them to accompany you during your driving sessions. You can also get their help in coming up with a safe driving plan. Also, try to listen to what your family members have got to say regarding your driving. They are definitely going to understand your perspective and provide you with valuable suggestions.