According to Chrysler engineer Marilyn Vala, people 65 and over are predicted to be four times more likely to buy a new vehicle than those under 25. Auto engineers are trying to design their car models to fit the needs of older drivers. They want the cars to be easier to use, but still look beautiful. They are also focusing on improving features to aid people with physical limitations. For instance, the design should be simple and the controls should be easy to identify. Features that are already available in cars today are the lane-departure alert, voice recognition, blind-spot detection and automatic braking. These car features could help senior drivers stay safe on the road.
Related: Should Older People Stop Driving?
Driving tips for Seniors
These car features are very helpful, but it’s also important to check the following:
- Have your eyesight and hearing checked regularly. Drivers need to be fully aware of what’s happening around them.
- It’s also a good idea to do as much driving during the day as possible. It’s easier to see your surroundings.
- If you’ve been taking medications, make sure to study the label and look for warnings. Better yet, talk with your doctor to see if it’s safe to be driving after you’ve just taken your medicine.
- If you feel drowsy or sick, don’t hop in the car and drive right away. Instead, lie down for a little while or call someone up for assistance.
Related: Kentucky Roadside Safety Tips
Seniors are driving more
A report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says that older Americans drive more now than seniors did in previous generations. So, offering vehicles that are easy to use and are safe is very important. If you’re having trouble recalling routes or feeling fatigued, it’s important to limit your driving. Remember that your family and friends are there to back you up on your transportation needs. Don’t feel like you have to take on the road alone.
Auto accidents tips
If you have been involved in a minor accident, one of the first things you should do is pull your car into a safe location. You want to be able to safely get out of your car to exchange information with the other driver. You will also want to call the police to report the accident. The police will also file a report. It’s also recommended that you go see your doctor as soon as you can to make sure you are not hurt. Some injuries aren’t noticeable right away, but it’s still important to get checked out. Please always be careful when you are driving. The new technology in cars is helpful, but you also need to focus on the road and your surroundings.