Aging drivers can be wiser drivers

Every time an aging driver is involved in a serious collision, it’s an issue. People start asking, "How old is too old to drive?"

The answer is that it depends.

"Age is never the sole indicator of driving ability," says Sandy Crighton, Supervisor of SGI’s Medical Review Unit. "Aging drivers are experienced drivers, which is a good thing. But as drivers age, they undergo changes in their vision, reflexes, flexibility and hearing. It’s important that they monitor themselves to make sure they continue to be physically and mentally capable of driving safely."

Crighton recommends that aging drivers examine their own road performance for warning signs that their ability to drive safely has changed. Some possible signs include:

Having a series of minor collisions or near misses.
Having wandering thoughts or being unable to concentrate while driving.
Being unable to read ordinary road signs.
Getting lost on familiar roads.
Having other drivers honk at you frequently.
Being spoken to about your driving by police, family or friends.

Drivers who think they may need to assess their driving abilities have several resources at their disposal. SGI’s Older and Wiser Driver handbook contains a self-assessment to help aging drivers gauge their driving ability. A copy of the guide can be found at any SGI motor licence issuer. The Saskatchewan Safety Council also offers a "55 Alive" course to help aging drivers refresh their driving skills, covering topics such as how the aging process affects driving and adapting to road and weather conditions. For more information, call (306) 757-3197.

"Being a safe driver means more than avoiding collisions," says Crighton. "It also means being aware of your own changing abilities. Just a few simple adjustments, such as limiting your driving to certain times or under certain conditions can help protect you and those around you from dangerous collisions."

Crighton says some of the adjustments an aging driver can make to avoid difficult traffic situations include driving only during daylight and in good weather, avoiding rush hour traffic and limiting fast-paced highway driving.

Contact:

Sandy Crighton
Supervisor, Medical Review Unit
SGI
Regina
(306) 751-1500

Booster seats are best for small children
SGI’s annual child safety seat campaign is in full swing, with free clinics all over the province. One question that often comes up is what to do with a child that has outgrown their car seat but isn’t quite big enough for a regular seat belt.

Beware of "drowsy driving" on vacation
During this busy vacation season, motorists are advised to stay alert - or stay off the road.

Aging drivers can be wiser drivers
Every time an aging driver is involved in a serious collision, it’s an issue. People start asking, "How old is too old to drive?"

Watch for farm vehicles on the highway
Motorists who take advantage of the increased highway speed limit this summer should take extra caution when sharing the road with farm equipment.