As you get older, there’s no denying things in your life change. Everyday routines can pose new challenges, and you might have to make some changes to keep yourself and others safe. According to the National Safety Council, car crash deaths involving drivers over the age of 65 have increased by 42% in the last decade.

While many factors can play into these accidents, the best thing you can do if you want to stay safe on the road is to adapt your driving habits and make some simple changes that promote safety.

As a senior, it can be difficult to admit that you’re struggling to do the same everyday actions you used to. But, by making a few changes to your driving habits, you can stay on the road later in life while keeping yourself and others as safe as possible.

With that in mind, let’s cover a few tips for aging drivers that can make a big difference.

What Are the Concerns?

Many factors can play into the increased risk seniors face when getting behind the wheel. Your reaction time might not be as quick as it used to be, so you might not see a car, motorcycle, or pedestrian as quickly as you need to for an accident to be avoided. It’s also not uncommon for aging individuals to deal with vision issues. While contacts and glasses can help, they’re only useful when they’re worn, and not everyone does that.

Health conditions and illnesses also become bigger issues as you age. While most health conditions won’t hinder you from running local errands, if you want to drive longer distances, it’s important to consider how your health or any chronic conditions you have might impair your driving ability.

One of the best things you can do before getting behind the wheel, especially for a longer trip, is to consult with your doctor about your health. They should be able to provide insight into what you need, including any medications that will help, so you can drive comfortably and with cognitive sharpness. They may also be able to provide guidance about boosting concentration and focus naturally which can help your other efforts.

Planning Ahead

Giving yourself a bit more time to get from point A to point B can make a big difference in your safety. We live in an ever-changing world, and if you haven’t traveled to a certain location in a while, taking a look at the route you want to take can help with your confidence. Is there any construction going on? Has the road or landscape changed since you last drove there? How long should you expect to be on the road before reaching your destination?

Planning ahead might seem excessive, but it will give you peace of mind as you hit the road. You’ll be less likely to feel overwhelmed and confused, so you can stay focused on safe driving habits and obeying local laws. The last thing you want is to obtain a speeding ticket that could impact your long-term driving record just because you didn’t plan ahead or pay attention to changes in the speed limit.

Planning with your vehicle can also keep you safe and confident on the road. Regularly check your tires, windshield, and brakes to ensure everything is working properly, especially if you travel frequently. You should do oil changes periodically too.

Keep in mind that things like extreme weather can take a toll on your vehicle. High winds can cause debris to hit your car. Rain and hail can damage the body, and extreme heat can affect tire pressure. If you live in an area that experiences any kind of harsh weather, regular vehicle maintenance is essential to your well-being whenever you get behind the wheel.

Safety Tips for Seniors

Again, if you have any concerns about staying safe on the road, talk to your doctor first. They should be able to give you some insight into whether it’s still safe for you to drive. If they give you the “green light,” consider putting some safety tips into practice every time you get behind the wheel, including:

• Driving during less busy times of day
• Keeping a safe distance between you and other vehicles
• Sitting at least 10 inches from the steering wheel to avoid airbag injuries (according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
• Scanning as far ahead down the road as possible

Most importantly, watch for changes you might be experiencing as an older driver. Have you noticed that your reaction time is slower? Do you have trouble seeing or hearing as clearly as you used to? Do you have physical ailments that make it difficult to look over your shoulder to check for traffic, or do you feel pain while driving due to the position you’re in?

There may be days when driving feels less comfortable or even a bit risky, whether due to slower reflexes, poor weather, or simply a lack of confidence. For these situations, opting for a rideshare service can be a safe and reliable alternative. By comparing options, they can choose the most affordable rideshare that suits their needs. Many apps, like Uber or Lyft, offer fare comparison tools, so finding the best price is easy. Additionally, services that provide real-time tracking and safety features, like emergency contacts and driver ratings, make ridesharing a secure and flexible option when driving doesn’t feel like the right choice.

While giving up driving can be difficult, you have to consider your safety and the safety of others first. If you continue to drive when you know it’s a risk, you could end up incurring tickets for minor traffic violations or could even cause a devastating accident. Take stock of your well-being every day before getting behind the wheel, and if you feel good enough to drive, make sure safety remains your top priority.