Many senior drivers in Pasadena and across California dread the day they have to give up driving due to age-related limitations. Although most older drivers are conscientious, there is no getting away from aging and its consequences. Recognizing and acknowledging limitations as they arrive can help them take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and others safe.
The three most prevalent concerns for senior drivers are hearing, vision and reaction time.
Impaired vision
Vision changes are part of the aging process, even for those who always had perfect vision. Regular vision checks are a must for drivers and keeping their prescriptions updated for corrective lenses. It is also good to wipe the mirrors down regularly, change the wiper blades frequently, turn up the light on the dashboard and defrost whenever the windows begin to fog.
Hearing problems
Hearing tests should form a part of scheduled medical checkups. Discussing hearing aids with the doctor when hearing becomes impaired is recommended. Make sure emergency vehicle horns and sirens are audible by avoiding loud music in the car.
Limited mobility and reaction time
Physical limitations sometimes cause slow reaction times, but there are ways for senior drivers to mitigate the risks while driving. Modern technology, as well as increasing physical aids and modifications to vehicles, can help senior drivers overcome their limitations.
Medications that senior drivers take is often an overlooked cause of slow responses. Prescription drugs are known to impair judgment and reflexes profoundly. Therefore, getting the doctor’s approval before driving while taking medication can prevent accidents.
Senior drivers who take the necessary precautions might extend their driving years. However, those who don’t might inadvertently cause preventable car accidents. When that happens, the injured car accident victims might have grounds to pursue financial relief by filing personal injury lawsuits in a California civil court against the negligent driver.