When is it Time to Stop Driving?

Studies indicate that if others tell you that you need to stop driving they may be right. Other Studies show the best way to resolve this issue is to consult your local Department of Motor Vehicles Office and request an appointment for a Driving Test.

Smiling Native American Senior recognizing when its tie to stop driving

Signs that it's Time to Limit or Stop Driving:

Almost crashing, with frequent "close calls."
Finding dents and scrapes on the car, on fences, mailboxes, garage doors, curbs, etc.
Getting lost, especially in familiar locations.
Having trouble seeing or following traffic signals, road signs, and pavement markings.
Responding more slowly to unexpected situations, or having trouble moving their foot from the gas to the brake pedal; confusing the two pedals.
Misjudging gaps in traffic at intersections and on highway entrance and exit ramps.
Experiencing road rage or causing other drivers to honk or complain.
Easily becoming distracted or having difficulty concentrating while driving.
Having a hard time turning around to check the rear view while backing up or changing lanes.
Receiving multiple traffic tickets or "warnings" from law enforcement officers.
You are taking new medications with this warning "May Cause Dizziness. Do Not Drive Or Perform Other Potentially DANGEROUS Tasks Until You Know How This Medication Affects You."
During the last two years, have you had any physical, mental, or emotional condition that would interfere with your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely including heart problems, diabetes, paralysis, epilepsy, seizures, lapses of consciousness, or dizziness?

Low Cost Transit for Disabled Individuals

If you have a temporary or on-going disability that results in you having to stop driving, you may qualify for low-cost Paratransit. Link to Frequently Asked Questions | FTA (dot.gov) which will provide ADA compliant transportation to medical appointments and the grocery store. To find a Paratransit Provider in your community conduct an on-line search for paratransit and include your home address or ask for a referral from your Doctor.

Do you have an issue that can be corrected? Investigate Driver Rehabilitation

A Driver Rehabilitation Specialist can administer a comprehensive driving evaluation that looks at all areas needed for driving (vision, physical functioning and cognition) as well as doing a thorough behind the wheel evaluation.

That information is very useful with decision making about whether it is time to stop driving.

Click Here to find a driver rehab specialist near you.

Auto Insurance Discounts for Drivers 55 and older

Revised State Statutes state that auto insurance companies offer a reduction in rates for drivers aged fifty-five years or older who complete a driver's education course.

It may be worth the savings to take the driver's refresher course.

Refer to your Auto Insurance provider for a list of approved Driver's Safety Programs and the discount they offer.

Drop us a line at:

help@olderwiser.org

This web-site includes resources listed that are not affiliated with this project, provided only for help with planning an auto-free lifestyle or vacation for regional and state-wide travel utilizing public and nonprofit transit. These organizations are not liable for information provided on this web-site. The Older and Wiser Project, along with Native American Broadcasting Company and our affiliates are not liable for any information or services provided by organizations not affiliated with this project or information listed on their web-sites.