With Oklahoma’s population getting older, it might be time to talk to an older driver you know about whether they can continue to be on the road safely.
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research says 83 percent of older drivers have never had that conversation with a family member or doctor.
"It’s a very touchy subject because one of the freedoms that we enjoy the very most as Americans is having an automobile and being able to get in it any time we want to and go anywhere we want to," said AAA Oklahoma's Mark Madeja.
If it’s time to have that talk, do it one-on-one, avoid generalizations about older drivers and stick to the facts.
"More frequent scratches on their vehicle, those are facts. If a ticket is received, that’s a fact," Madeja said. "And then plan together. There are so many alternatives open to seniors. Obviously, there are community service organizations that will give people a ride, and there is so much more in the rideshare service arena."
The fastest-growing segments of Oklahoma’s population the next two decades will be ages 65 to 79 and 80 plus. Madeja said talking to them about their driving abilities isn't just about their safety.
"We’ve heard tragic stories about an older driver running into a crowd or running into a building hitting the wrong pedal," Madeja said.
Many older adults live about seven years past their "driving retirement" age. AAA has resources on its website to help plan for safe driving discussions, including a driver planning agreement.
