Is It Time for Sarasota, FL Drivers to Tune Up Their Driving Skills?

During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, Dec. 5-9, 2011, attention in Sarasota, FL is being focused on providing resources and information aimed at roadway safety for older drivers. “The number of senior drivers will increase 70 percent over the next 20 years, and crash rates for drivers age 65 and older are higher than any age group except teens,” the National Safety Council reported. “These factors could mean up to 100,000 older driver deaths from now until 2028.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, older drivers age 65 years and older are more likely than other drivers to receive traffic citations for failing to yield, turning improperly, running red lights and stop signs, ignoring pedestrian crossings, and parking violations. They are also more likely than younger drivers to get into multiple-vehicle accidents and require hospitalization.

In order to curb some of these trends, several state agencies offer driver safety classes for older drivers. In Illinois, for example, refresher programs are offered at senior centers and community buildings to help drivers age 75 and older prepare for the road test they are required to take when they renew their licenses. Illinois drivers age 87 and older must renew their licenses every year. A state-by-state listing of specific rules for older drivers is available at Caring.com.

The AARP also offers classes on basic safety guidelines and traffic rules, as well as how to accommodate age-related changes that involve hearing, vision and reaction time. Older drivers completing the course may even qualify for discounts on their automotive insurance. Locations and registration information about classes is available in Sarasota, FL on the AARP website.

Do you have any safe driving tips to share with our readers in Sarasota, FL?

Right at Home, Inc. is your local and international expert for issues related to caring for your loved one and is dedicated to keeping you informed about home care. Right at Home offers in-home care and assistance so your loved one can continue living independently and enjoying a vibrant life. Our caregivers are screened, trained, bonded and insured prior to entering your home so you can trust us with the caregiving while you focus on your loved one.