3 life-saving road safety tips for older adults

There is an unfortunate reality in the fact that many adults experience deterioration in their vision or reaction speed with age. While these changes might not affect most of your day-to-day activities, they can certainly affect you when you are behind the wheel.

Certain physical and medical conditions can make driving more dangerous for older adults, but there are good habits you can follow to ensure that you remain safe behind the wheel. By keeping a few road safety tips in mind, you might just save your own life or that of someone else.

1. Avoid driving during poor visibility

Fog, precipitation and wind-blown snow create dangerous conditions for drivers of all ages, but especially for older adults who already suffer from poor vision. The Federal Highway Administration reports that over 38,000 vehicle crashes occur each year during poor visibility conditions, illustrating the importance of exercising due caution.

2. Keep windshield interiors clean

It goes without saying that dirt and smudges on the exterior of your windshield can impede your view, but the haze and film that gradually builds on the interior can be even more dangerous. If you suffer from vision impairments, it is especially crucial that you regularly clean the inside and outside of your windshields.

3. Practice defensive driving

Defensive driving tactics can protect every type of driver, but older adults should consider adopting defensive driving as a matter of necessity. Slower-paced and preventative habits can be much safer than high-speed driving for those who experience slower reaction times.

Drivers both younger and older can take safety into their own hands by choosing to be appropriately careful when behind the wheel. If the negligence of another motorist causes an accident despite your best efforts, however, you have the right to pursue compensation for any damages incurred.