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Posted: 1:47 PM Jan 30, 2012
Seniors Driving Safety Tips
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety the number of drivers over 70 is rapidly increasing. And research shows that people today live an average of 7 to 10 years beyond their driving ability.
Reporter: Giselle Phillip Email Address: Giselle@wtvy.com |
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According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety the number of drivers over 70 is rapidly increasing. And research shows that people today live an average of 7 to 10 years beyond their driving ability.
"As we grow older we age and our reaction times slow down so this is really just a course to help them maintain their agility,” said AARP Driving Instructor, Douglas Jacobs.
Douglas Jacobs is a safety driving instructor for AARP. They host a senior safety driving course at the southeast Alabama medical center four times a year. He says it's important for seniors to be defensive drivers.
"The number one and number two things that effect us seniors and our driving is right away accidents and left hand turn accidents, those are the two skills that kill most of seniors in intersections," said Jacobs.
Following some simple tips will help keep senior drivers and others safe while on the road.
Make sure you always read the label before taking any medications and know the side effects.
"Alcohol and meds don't mix so you need to be aware of that and also what affects it can have on you,” said Jacobs.
You should also get your eyes examined regularly and set mirrors in the car properly to avoid glare of headlights behind you. The American Automobile Association states the more active you are the more you exercise your mind and body...so go for a walk or develop a stretching routine.
"Not only seniors but it’s for young people too, everybody should know the rules of the road," said Jacobs.
You can even take the driving safety class online, through AARP and you do not have to be a member to take the course.
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