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Safe Driving into Old Age SuffolkRoadsafe would like to help older drivers to continue their driving careers safely.
The Suffolk Grand Driver scheme is a Department for Transport funded project running until March 2009. The project is being researched to test its effectiveness and enable us to deliver the most effective education and training for older drivers.
Older drivers throughout Suffolk have been helping us by attending free one day seminars at venues around the County since October 2007 and giving us the opportunity to gather valuable data which will help to shape the scheme over the coming months.
Thanks to a fantastic response to the promotion of the scheme, we have now filled all the spaces for the remaining seminars.
We will now be analysing research and data so we can develop a comprehensive programme for older drivers which will be available from next year.
Seminar Content
Classroom
• General driving, mobility and health issues.
• Highway Code quiz.
• Keystone vision screening.
• Cognitive trail test assessment.
On-road assessment
Drivers will undergo a thorough assessment of their skills over a 1hr 15-minute session. Each driver will receive a written report and a personal debrief at the end.
Venues
Seminars will be held throughout the year at the following locations:
• Carlton Manor, Carlton Colville, Lowestoft.
• Elizabeth Hotel, Felixstowe.
• SALC Offices, Claydon, Ipswich.
• The Cedars Hotel, Stowmarket
.
Information and booking
Please email: suffolkroadsafe@et.suffolkcc.gov.uk
General information for Older Drivers
 There are, of course, potential problems associated with ageing that will affect ability to manage a vehicle in modern traffic conditions. Our intention is to provide information and advice that will keep people mobile, either by maintaining driving skills and suggesting safer strategies, or offering alternatives to the car.
Facts and Figures
- People are living longer, the average lifespan for a man is now 82 years and for a woman 87 years.
- 17% of driving licenses are held by over 65's in Suffolk.
- Because of increased physical frailty older drivers are up to four times more likely to be severely injured or die in a road accident than a young adult.
- Older drivers have accidents in complex traffic scenarios, especially where they have to cross a stream of traffic and yield right of way.
- The most likely cause of accident is at junctions, and turning right is the most difficult manoeuvre.
- Driver inattention and poor observation are the most common errors.
- Reaction times are generally slower than that of a younger person.
- Medication may adversely affect driving ability.
Keep Mobile
You must renew your licence when you reach the age of 70, and every three years afterwards. Many people can continue to drive safely at an older age and the disadvantages of ageing may be offset by experience. It is also possible to develop strategies that will reduce the level of risk when travelling.
Strategies for Driving Safely
- Regular eyesight checks.
- Clear understanding of the effects of medication and especially when medicines are combined.
- Recognition of personal limitations, for example, in physical movement and speed of reaction, and to drive with awareness of these restrictions.
- Travel at times of the day when there is less traffic.
- Avoid night driving if night vision is a problem.
- Avoid driving in poor weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow.
- Choose routes that are less busy.
- Keep up to date with the Highway Code and new legislation.
- Take an annual driving assessment with a qualified driving instructor.
Safer Alternatives
- Avoid urban driving at busy periods by using park and ride facilities, taxis or buses and trains.
- Consider pubic transport options for the whole journey.
- Ask about local facilities for mobility assistance or help with shopping, pension collection, library use and visits to friends or the doctor.
Useful Sites
www.suffolkonboard.com
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