Kansas Traffic Safety Resource Office
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Dec. 4-8 is Older Driver Safety Awareness Week.
According to information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the older adult population is increasing as they live longer and healthier lives. They are also driving later into their lives.
In 2021, 21% of all drivers (55.8 million people) were aged 65 and older.
While older drivers are less likely to drive aggressively, they are considered vulnerable road users because crash data shows they account for a disproportionate number of the annual traffic fatalities in the United States (17% in 2021).
Driving is a complex activity. Older adults should be proactive about safe driving and identify changes to their physical abilities early. They should plan for a safe transition in their transportation options to ensure safe mobility.
Talking with an older person about their driving or evaluating your own driving is often difficult, but it’s important — especially before it becomes a safety issue.
Here are some questions to consider asking an older driver.
1. Are you getting lost on routes that should be familiar?
2. Have you noticed new dents or scratches on your vehicle?
3. Have you recently received a ticket or citation for a driving violation?
4. Have you experienced a near-miss or crash recently?
5. Have you been advised to stop driving due to a health reason?
6. Do traffic signs and signals, or other motorists, make you feel overwhelmed while driving?
7. Have you discussed whether an over-the-counter or prescription medication, or diagnosis change, may affect your driving with your doctor?
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