driving tips
Maybe you already know that driving at night or in rainy weather is a problem for you. Some older drivers also have problems with certain routes or driving on busy highways, for example. Consider these tips to help you make safe choices about driving:
- Talk with your doctor. If you have any concerns about your health and driving, see your doctor. Don’t risk hurting yourself or others.
- Be physically active. This will help you keep and even improve your strength and flexibility, which may help your driving abilities.
- Consider your car. If possible, drive a car with automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and large mirrors. Newer cars come equipped with backup cameras, which can make parking and backing up easier, as well as other sensors that can alert a driver to a nearby object or vehicle before an accident occurs.
- Take care of your eyes and ears. Always wear your glasses or contact lenses if you need them to see clearly. If you use hearing aids, be sure to wear them while driving.
- Avoid driving certain times of day. Cut back on or stop driving at night if you have trouble seeing in the dark. Try to avoid driving during sunrise and sunset, when the sun can be directly in your line of vision.
- Check in with yourself. Don’t drive if you feel lightheaded or drowsy. Be sure to check any warnings on your medications. Try to avoid driving when you are stressed or tired.
- Don’t crowd. Leave ample space between your car and the car in front of you and start braking early when you need to stop.
- Plan your timing. Avoid heavy traffic areas or rush-hour driving when you can.
- Plan your route. Drive on streets you know and find a way to go that requires few or no left turns. Choose a route that avoids highways or other high-speed roadways. If you must drive on a fast-moving highway, drive in the right-hand lane, where traffic moves more slowly.
- When in doubt, don’t go out. Bad weather, such as rain, ice, or snow, can make it hard for anyone to drive. Try to wait until the weather is better, or use buses, taxis, ridesharing services, or other alternatives.
- Wear seat belts. Always wear your seat belt and make sure your passengers wear theirs, too.
- Limit distractions. Eating, adjusting the radio, or chatting can all be distracting. If you use your cellphone while driving (for navigation, for example), use it hands-free and use voice activation when possible. Never type on your phone while driving.
- Use window defrosters. These will help keep windows and windshields clear.
Source: National Institute on Aging