Driving Tips For Seniors

As we age, it is normal for our driving abilities to change. By reducing risk factors

Driving Tips for seniors: In old age, it's common to change driving skills and habits. By reducing risk factors and incorporating safe driving practices, many of us can continue driving safely long into our senior years. But we do have to pay attention to any warning signs that age is interfering with our driving safety and make required changes. Even if you find that you need to reduce driving or give up the keys, it doesn't mean the end of your independence. But older we get harder it is to continue driving safely. Old age brings late reaction times, impaired judgment and physical limitations. There are safe driving tips for seniors which elders can use to extend driving capabilities. Safe driving tips for senior citizens include:

Limit left hand turns. Elder people are more likely to be involved in left-turn crashes. To reduce this risk, make left turns only at controlled intersections with left turn arrows or have a friend re-route popular trips to the doctor's office or grocery store using only right turns.

Go for second option of driving before the need arises. Have friends and family members help assemble a list of all transportation options of the area. If you need to stop or significantly limit driving, you will be ready with bus time table, phone numbers for car pool groups, and public transportation options to stay mobile and independent without missing a beat.

Do not use highway: More traffic means big chances for an accident. If interstate highway travel is cause for alarm, choose a less traveled road that you are most familiar with. Keep busy times of day in mind and try to plan appointments when there are few vehicles on road. You can use public transportation as well car-pooling is also a good option.

Go for a "senior friendly" vehicle. A car with power steering quickly comes to mind, but still there are more options to consider like power and anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights, rear window defrosters, power-adjust side mirrors and more. Easy-to-reach controls are critical to safe driving. Large, well-lit dials and gauges also help to the large extent. If you are at dealership to buy a new vehicle, keep these options in mind and choose one with a light.