The FINANCIAL — The rise of city populations is putting more and more older people in road traffic.
Particularly at risk are people over the age of 75, who are involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. As Allianz reported, their numbers are increasing rapidly.
Consult your physician if you feel unsure. Your physician can explain the dangers of medication side-effects and can carry out eyesight and hearing tests.
It’s also important to make sure that you’re wearing the right eyewear, whether that’s prescription glasses from Eyeglasses.com to contact lenses. It’s worth checking your current eyewear and seeing whether this needs to be changed or updated to suit your eyesight. If you don’t have the correct eyewear, then you could be putting others at risk when you’re on the road.
Amongst older people there are certain risk groups, such as those who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. They should definitely seek medical advice before driving a car.
You can also consult “mobility centers” such as inspection services or transport associations, which can be found in many cities. They often have age group-specific consultation services.
Avoid driving in difficult conditions, such as at sunset, in the rain or at rush hour.
Fatigue is the main cause of many serious accidents. So remember to plan enough breaks during longer journeys.
Have you considered taking car-train when going on holiday? This service takes both you and your car on board a train – you don’t have to drive to your destination yourself.
A specialized or refresher driver training can help you to better assess the behavior of your car in difficult situations, such as when the road is slippery. There are special offers for senior citizens just as there are for young drivers.
Ask about driver assistance systems when you buy your next car. These can help you to deal with difficult traffic situations without taking responsibility away from you. In any case, certain types of car are more suited to older people than others – a professional can also help you with this.
“Vulnerable” road users, like pedestrians and cyclists, should make sure they are as visible as possible: wear bright, reflective clothing and have clean reflectors on your bicycle wheels.
Defensive behavior helps keep everyone in traffic safer, especially on urban thoroughfares, pedestrian crossings and at complex junctions.
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