Things You Need To Know About Old Drivers, Senior citizens, just like other people, have the right to drive on the road. However, it has been observed that older drivers have an increased risk of car accidents. Not only that, but they make the road less safe because of various reasons. For starters, the impairments that come with old age can affect their driving. Things You Need To Know About Old Drivers
If an old driver has injured you, you may not want to create problems for them by filing a legal case. However, if you have acquired injuries, it is essential you hold the responsible person accountable for their negligent actions. Speak with a car accident lawyer Philadelphia, PA, today to explore your options.
Age significantly impacts driving.
One might think that old people are experienced drivers so they won’t cause accidents. Moreover, they are less likely to drive drunk and more likely to wear seatbelts. However, they still cause a significant number of accidents.
While old people are not barred from driving on the road, it is certainly recommended that people with impairments do not drive. Since most people above 70 have one or the other physical or mental problem, it can make the road dangerous for them as well as the other people on the road.
As people grow old, their body goes through various changes. These changes can affect their ability to do even the simplest household tasks, let alone drive. Some risks older drivers face include:
Slower reflexes
Diminishing cognitive abilities
Difficulty turning or moving easily
Changes in vision
These changes are dangerous for any driver.
How to tell your loved ones that they need to stop driving?
Watching your parents or grandparents get old and not being able to drive the way they used to can be disheartening. What is more disheartening is breaking the fact to them that they are not fit for driving anymore. Asking someone to stop driving and letting others drive for them is taking away their freedom. They may not like to be a burden on their family members by asking them to drive every time they need to go out.
However, remember that you are only helping them. If they are not fit for driving, it could interfere with their safety. Choose the right time to discuss the safety issues. You may also ask them to drive only during the daylight hours to reduce the risks and still let them keep their freedom. Point out the alternatives of private transport, such as an Uber, public transportation, etc.
