Older Driver Safety Awareness Week begins Dec. 6
For Immediate Release: Dec 01 2021
Statewide – The North Dakota Department of Transportation through Vision Zero encourages aging drivers, their family, friends and caregivers to have conversations about driving habits during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, Dec. 6-10.
Age-related changes in health can affect a driver’s ability to drive safely. Drivers 65 and older should re-evaluate their driving habits to determine if there has been a decline in an area that impacts the ability to drive. Driving skills may decline at a slow rate so self-awareness is key to responsible driving.
Vision Zero has developed an Aging Driver Guide to help aging drivers, their family, friends and caregivers evaluate driving behaviors. Family members or caregivers should be aware of potential problems affecting safe driving when the older adult:
• Is forgetful or confused.
• Uses bad judgement when driving.
• Fails to follow the rules of the road.
• Can’t see where they’re going.
• Exhibits aggressive driving behavior.
• Drives well below the speed limit.
• Experiences multiple traffic crashes (dents or dings on the car).
• Has neighbors, friends or others who indicate there is a problem.
Developing a transportation plan can ease the transition to driving retirement and allow older adults to maintain their independence and mobility.
Learn more about this Vision Zero strategy and other traffic safety campaigns at VisionZero.ND.gov.
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