 |
Six Steps to Defensive Driving
People age 70 and older face a
higher risk of dying in a vehicle
crash than those in any other
age group except 16- to 20-year-olds.
"There are many possible reasons for
this," says Scott Druckman, D.O., a
family physician in the Jackson area.
"For one thing, many older people
have medical conditions that can
impair driving, such as arthritis and
glaucoma. And getting older can slow
some people's reflexes."
Fortunately, most older adults
can keep driving safely by following
these tips:
- Go back to school. A recent study
in the journal Neurology found that
a technique called simulator training
helped people resume driving
after a stroke. Plus, taking a drivers'
refresher class may lower your
insurance rates.
- Adjust your schedule. Change
your driving habits to avoid problem
situations, such as night driving,
rush hour, and rain.
- Pay extra attention. Older
drivers face the highest risks
when changing lanes, passing,
using expressway ramps, and turning left. If left turns are a
problem, the American Academy
of Family Physicians suggests
substituting three right turns.
- Get checked out. Have your eyes
and ears tested regularly for conditions
that could make driving
dangerous. And ask your doctor for
medication options that mix best
with driving.
- Service your car. To see more
clearly, keep your windshield and
mirrors clean, and replace windshield
wipers frequently. Stay on
top of any other scheduled maintenance
recommended by your car's
manufacturer.
- Have a backup plan. When driving
feels unsafe, take a taxi, bus, or
train, or hitch a ride from a friend
or family member.
Dr. Druckman also advises,
"Do not do other activities that
may distract you while driving,
such as eating, smoking, or using a
cell phone."
|
