How to Drive Safely as You Age: 5 Tips for Busy Roads and Routes

As you age, your reflexes and abilities may not be as sharp as they once were. That means you may struggle to react quickly enough to unexpected events on the road, which could increase the risk of being involved in a collision.
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But being a senior doesn’t mean you shouldn’t drive. You can remain safe behind the wheel, even on the busiest roads and routes, if you follow the right safety tips.

​Choose the Right Vehicle

Cars come in various shapes and sizes, impacting driving abilities and comfort. Ideally, the right car for seniors should make your daily driving experience as comfortable as possible. Whether it’s legroom or easy access to controls, take time to test drive several different auto models before you choose one that suits you and your needs.
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Also, you will want to consider the safety technologies in a vehicle. For example, a car with an advanced driver-assist system, such as blind spot monitoring or lane departure warning, can help alert you to potential hazards on the road so you can react safely.

​Drive Defensively Around Large Trucks

Driving on the same roads as big rigs can be hazardous for seniors who are not used to sharing the road with larger vehicles. Therefore, be extremely cautious when driving along 18-wheelers.
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It will help if you give the trucks extra space while driving behind them. This will ensure you have enough time to react if a truck driver suddenly changes lanes or brakes.

A good rule of thumb is to apply the 3-second rule, which requires you to leave at least a three-second distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you.

Moreover, avoid driving in the truck’s blind spot at all costs. Doing so may make it harder for the truck driver to see you, increasing the risk of a collision.

Even though driving defensively around trucks can help reduce the chances of an accident, it is impossible to avoid accidents entirely. The good news is that you may be entitled to seek compensation if someone else is to blame for the accident.

​But given the complex nature of truck accident claims, you should consider hiring experienced 18-wheeler accident lawyers, such as those on this page, to help you pursue what you deserve.

​Avoid Distractions

Distracted driving puts your safety on the road at risk. According to the CDC, about nine people die daily in distracted driving-related crashes in the United States.

Therefore, always keep your attention on the road when behind the wheel. In other words, you should avoid multitasking or using your cell phone while driving. Additionally, if you plan to use your GPS, set it before you start your trip so you won’t have to keep checking it along the way.

Be Mindful of Road Conditions

Road conditions can significantly impact your driving experience. That’s why you must check the weather forecast, traffic reports, and the nature of your route before you start your journey.
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Road conditions such as heavy rain, fog, or ice can make it harder to see the road ahead. They can also make the road slippery, increasing the risk of skidding and losing control of your vehicle. Therefore, in bad weather conditions, you should drive carefully or avoid driving whenever possible to ensure safety.

Don’t Drive When You’re Tired

An excellent way to drive safely is by staying fresh and focused at all times. Drowsy driving is hazardous as it affects your ability to make timely, sound decisions behind the wheel.
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Ideally, before you hit the road, especially for long trips, ensure you’re in peak condition by staying well-rested and eating a balanced diet. Above all, don’t be tempted to drive after taking medication that can affect your alertness level.