Facts & Tips for Older Drivers

Improving our safety as Older Drivers

On the bright side, as older drivers we have significant experience:

  • we usually drink less alcohol;
  • we usually drive at safer speeds;
  • we usually have a large number of kilometres "under our belts";
  • we tend to adjust our driving to match our ability; and
  • We are less likely to take risky actions on the road.

At the same time, as older drivers we have to contend with a number of personal changes and issues such as:

  • Deteriorating eyesight;
  • Deteriorating hearing;
  • Reduced physical strength;
  • Reduced flexibility;
  • Age-related diseases such as arthritis; and
  • Slower reaction times and other mental changes.

In surveys and forums, we report difficulty with:

  • Changes in road rules and technology.
  • The attitudes of some other drivers including driver aggression.
  • Traversing roundabouts.
  • Dealing with busy intersections.
  • Judging distances and speeds.
  • Fatigue, especially on long trips.
  • Night driving and bright lights.
  • Reversing and parking.
  • Tailgating by other drivers.

So what can we do?

  • Obtain a copy of the Current Road Rules and check your knowledge and keep up to date.
  • Obtain and read the Older Drivers Handbook.
  • Undertake a Driver Refresher Program such as COTA's "Overdrive Program".
  • Take a couple of update lessons with a driving instructor who specialises in working with older drivers.
  • Check with your GP about the impact of medications on your driving.
  • Ask others whom you trust (such as your children or close friends) to provide honest feedback on your driving ability.
  • Actively work to improve your health and wellbeing. Increased physical and mental exercise can provide significant imrpovements in your ability as a driver.
  • Adjust your driving to avoid situations where you are uncomfortable or feel unsafe:

    • Night driving: Many older people find driving at night difficult - glare, and other issues become a significant problem. If you are uncomfortable with night driving, then try to avoid it.
    • Complex right-hand turns: One of the most common areas of accident for older drivers is when making right hand turns across traffic. It is well worth considering taking a longer route that will avoid right hand turns at busy intersections when possible.
    • Avoid times of peak traffic: The peak traffic periods for the ACT are between 8:00am - 9:00am and between 4:00pm and 6:00pm. Needless to say, these are also the times of peak accidents - avoid driving during these times if you can.