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Safe Driving Tips for Seniors

Forty-eight million licensed drivers in the country are age 65 or older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [1]. Driving enables seniors to maintain their freedom and independence. It also comes with risks; 20 older adults are killed and 540 more are injured each day in car crashes[2]. If you are an older driver, it’s important to take precautions to ensure that you stay safe on the road.

Top 10 Tips to Stay Safe While Driving

• Have your vision and hearing checked by healthcare professionals at least once a year to ensure your prescriptions are current. Also, always wear your glasses and hearing aids when driving so you are fully aware of what is going on around you.
• When your doctor prescribes a new medication, ask about any side effects and if it is safe for you to drive while taking it.
• If joint pain impacts your mobility, talk to your doctor about whether it is safe for you to drive. If your movement is constricted, it will restrict your ability to safely look over your shoulder to switch lanes or slam on the brake.
• Avoid driving in bad weather. Bad weather increases the odds of being involved in an accident, and adults age 70+ are more likely to die than younger people in a crash due to their increased vulnerability to injuries[3].
• Avoid driving at night; there is less visibility, more impaired drivers on the road[4], and you are more likely to be fatigued.
• Keep as physically fit as you can. In the event you are in an accident, being in better shape can help you recover more quickly from injuries.
• Chances are it’s been a while since you studied for your driver’s license. Consider taking a refresher driving course designed for seniors.
• As we age, our reaction time slows, so keep plenty of space between you and the car in front of you in case you need to brake unexpectedly.
• If you are going on a long drive, take breaks every couple of hours. Take a few minutes to stretch, walk around and have some water to help keep hydrated and alert.
• Wear a seatbelt every time you are in a car. It’s the most effective protection against injury and death in a crash[5].

If you are injured in a car crash that you believe was not your fault, contact ECanter Lawyers right away. We will fight to recover the funds you need to make your life as whole as possible again.

ECanter Lawyers

When you are dealing with the chaos and pain of accidents and personal injuries, the last thing you need is technical, confusing legal language.  ECanter Lawyers breaks down the complexities and provides clear, informative answers so that you understand your legal options. 

For a quarter of a century, ECanter Lawyers has remained committed to honest, straightforward answers.  Named one of AVVO’s Clients’ Choice, ECanter Lawyers has helped clients receive multi-million-dollar verdicts, and millions of dollars in settlements.  ECanter Lawyers specializes in personal injury, motor vehicle accidents, medical malpractice, premises and product liability, and healthcare law.

With offices conveniently located throughout South Florida and 24/7 services, ECanter Lawyers personal injury law firm offers you the personalized attention that you need in order to maximize your compensation. 

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[1] CDC. Older Driver Safety | Features | Injury Center | CDC. Accessed February 6, 2023.

[2] CDC. Older Driver Safety | Features | Injury Center | CDC. Accessed February 6, 2023.

[3] CDC. Older Driver Safety | Features | Injury Center | CDC. Accessed February 6, 2023.

[4] National Safety Council. Driving at Night – National Safety Council (nsc.org). Accessed February 6, 2023.

[5] National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Seat Belt Safety: Buckle Up America | NHTSA. Accessed February 6, 2023.