I am 75. How can I tell if it is time for me to give up my car keys?

 

A:

This is a good and very topical question. With an aging baby boomer generation and an increase in life expectancy, there are more elderly drivers on the roads.  Some of these drivers, like yourself, are wondering if they are safe enough to be on the road; many times their family and friends are also concerned that it may be time for them to put the keys up.

This is also a difficult question and one to be taken seriously for these reasons.

  1. Facts show that the crash rate per mile driven begins to increase at age 65.
  2. Motor vehicle injuries are the leading cause of injury-related deaths among 65 to 74 year olds.
  3. Motor vehicle accidents are the second highest cause of death for 75 to 84 year olds, second only to falls.
  4. Driving means independence, and not driving - dependence.

If you are wondering if you should give up driving, here are some questions that may help you decide if you need to adjust your driving or find transportation alternatives. 

Have you: 

  • Gotten lost on familiar routes?
  • Noticed new dents or scratches on your car?
  • Recently received a ticket for failure to yield right of way, turning improperly, running a stop sign, or other moving violations?
  • Been advised to stop or limit your driving by your physician due to health or medication reasons?
  • Gotten overwhelmed by road signs and markings while driving?
  • Sped or driven too slowly for no reason?
  • Found that other drivers honk at you often?
  • Noticed that other people no longer want to accept rides from you?
  • Heard your friends and family member's voice concern about your driving?
  • Had more trouble parking recently?
  • Noticed that busy intersections and left hand turns are becoming more confusing?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), suggests that it may indicate that your safety is be at risk when you drive and may want to consider alternative transportation or limiting your driving.   

For more information:

Safety tips for elderly drivers.

Are older drivers more dangerous?




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