Staying safe on the roads
02 Mar 2020
Staying safe on the roads
Senior drivers have great experience and knowledge of the roads, so overall they are very safe drivers, and they have less crashes than many other groups. However, it can be the case that Senior drivers are more likely to experience serious injuries in crashes, as the body can be more easily injured.
It is also true to say that there will come a time for all of us when we need to think about getting around using alternatives to driving a car. It’s good to start thinking about this when we are in good health, so that we are prepared to make use of the different options that are available.
If you are driving a car, you might want to refresh your road code knowledge and get together with other senior drivers to discuss how you get around at one of the free ‘Staying Safe’ workshops, which are provided by Age Concern. Click on the link for ‘Staying Safe: A refresher workshop’ via the webpage at the end of this article to find out more.
The webpage also has links to information on ‘Renewing your driving licence’, which you need to do at the ages of 75, 80, and every two years after that. This involves getting a medical certificate from your General Practitioner or Practice Nurse, who will assess your fitness to drive, and provide advice. You might also want to click on the ‘Self-Rating Assessment’, which is a confidential quiz that asks a number of questions about your driving. Once you have completed the quiz, the website will give you some individualised advice, which is tailored to your needs.
In the ‘Senior driver statistics and resources’ link you’ll find additional links to two helpful guides. ‘Supporting senior drivers’ provides advice on how to open up discussions around alternatives to driving. ‘The road ahead’ provides a detailed overview on how to get around without a car, as well as tips that help with safe driving.
You may have also heard that we now have a comprehensive video learning resource for child restraints, which will be particularly relevant to you if you care for young children, or if you transport grandchildren around. This resource also allows you to see a video guide for your specific type of restraint. There source is available here: www.nzta.govt.nz/safety/vehicle-safety/safety-belts-and-restraints/child-restraints/buying-and-installing-child-restraints/Senior
Drivers are important role models for younger drivers, and people who are learning to drive, and the wisdom and life experience you carry is invaluable for others. If you want to find out more about any of the topics mentioned, please visit: www.nzta.govt.nz/safety/driving-safely/senior-drivers/Happy driving and stay safe on the roads!
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