Senior drivers have greater driving experience than younger drivers, which is clearly an advantage with regard to safety. As one ages however, he or she will need to adapt to changes in traffic laws, new developments in equipment, and changes in overall skills. Following are a few thoughts to consider to help seniors with driver safety.
•Consider Avoiding Nighttime Driving
After you turn 35 to 40 years old, your eyesight gradually begins to decline. When it gets dark, the roads and surrounding areas are harder to see and the glare of headlights can make it hard to see beyond your dashboard. Fatigue can also become an issue, so if possible, run errands during daylight hours. Also, consider traveling with an alert passenger.
•Take a Driver Course
A mature driver's course is geared to help seniors and will help reaffirm skills that can deteriorate over time; such as driving habits related to pedestrian right of way, four way stops, yielding and lane changes.
•Avoid Heavy Traffic
Avoiding heavy traffic often is the best course of action, however on occasions you may find yourself driving in it. You can better deal with heavy traffic by giving yourself plenty of travel time, being patient and avoiding being anxious or exasperated. Be sure to prepare ahead for exits and turns and use turn signals to communicate your intent to other drivers. You can also use alternate routes to avoid heavy traffic.
•Warm-Up Before You Leave
Just as you check your vehicle to ensure it is ready, also prepare yourself for driving prior to leaving. Gently and carefully stretch your neck, torso, and shoulders to warm up. This can help you fight fatigue and reduce tension.
•Prepare to Share the Road
It can be easy to disregard other travelers on the road while you are intently focusing on your driving. Remain aware of pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, vehicles pulling trailers, and others on the road such as skateboarders and horse riders.
•Avoid Distractions
Select an instrument panel that does not cause distraction with too many controls or flashing lights. Conversation with a passenger, cellular telephone use, checking a map, changing radio channels and eating or drinking are unsafe distractions. Also, if your mind wanders to distracting thoughts, refocus on your driving.
•General Traffic Information
Excessive speed, red light, unsafe left turns, pedestrian violations, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are the primary violations that lead to serious injuries and deaths. West Traffic Division officers and Area patrol officers are regularly patrolling and enforcing traffic laws to help lower the number of serious collisions that occur.
•Traffic Tips
Look both ways twice before crossing the street.Wear your seatbelt, and ensure that children with you are properly secured.Don't drink and drive.Please slow down. Speed kills.
Community Traffic Services Unit (CTSU) is one of the specialized units operating as a part of West Traffic Division that works to resolve particular community concerns. If you have traffic safety concerns in a particular area, you may contact CTSU at 213- 473-0215 or West Traffic Division at 213-473-0222 to voice your concerns. Further information regarding CTSU is available on the West Traffic Division WebPage.
NANCY D. LAUER, Captain Commanding Officer West Traffic Division
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