For senior drivers in New South Wales (NSW), safety on the road is paramount for the driver and other road users as well. From commuting around local areas, to embarking on long trips, essential safe driving techniques can help everyone stay safe and minimise the risk of accidents. With a focus on defensive driving, understanding the road rules, and being aware of potential hazards, senior drivers can make sure they continue to enjoy driving with confidence.
So put on your seatbelts as we take a refresher course on practical and safe driving tips that we need to remember as we get older.
1. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
A key aspect of driving safely is staying aware of your environment. Always keep an eye on the road ahead and anticipate the actions of other drivers. This means noticing the car ahead of you, being alert for pedestrians at intersections, cyclists on the side of the road, or even heavy vehicles that might obscure your view. As we age, reaction times can slow down, making fast driving both problematic and challenging while making it even more critical to stay focused when we’re on the road.
For instance, when changing lanes or merging, always check your mirrors and look for any blind spots. Sometimes, even the slightest distraction can lead to dangerous driving situations. So stay vigilant at all times.
2. Defensive Driving Courses
Courses on defensive driving are an excellent option if you want to brush up on your skills, which are even more essential as we age. These courses offer tips on anticipating potential hazards and reacting safely to dangerous driving situations. Through defensive driving techniques, one can better predict the behaviour of other drivers and be prepared for sudden stops, hazardous weather conditions, or high-speed encounters.
Many driving schools in NSW offer defensive driving courses specifically for senior citizens. These courses cover a range of topics, including how to maintain a safe following distance, how to navigate busy intersections, and how to respond to unexpected road situations.
3. Adhere to Speed Limits
Speed limits are in place for a reason — they help protect everyone on the road. As a senior driver, it’s important to know and respect laws on posted speed limits to be a step ahead of the potential risks, especially when navigating residential areas, driveways, or busy streets. Be mindful that driving faster can increase the risk of being involved in a crash. This is especially important to remember when other drivers are not adhering to road safety.
If you find yourself driving in heavy traffic or poor weather conditions, it is best to drive at slower speeds to maintain control of your vehicle. One common mistake is being too confident when familiar with the area. Experience is great, but don’t forget that sudden changes can happen. So, constantly adjust your speed according to the road conditions and avoid speeding as a general rule.
4. Maintain a Safe Distance at All Times
Keeping a safe following distance is essential for all drivers, but it is particularly important for seniors. Another general rule of thumb is to stay at least three seconds behind the car ahead. This gives you enough reaction time for sudden changes in traffic or obstacles in your path.
In congested traffic or when driving behind large vehicles such as trucks or buses, increase your following distance to help maintain visibility. This is your buffer zone, which means more time to notice any potential hazards from debris in the road or a sudden stop by the vehicle in front.
5. Avoid Driving When Tired or Fatigued
Fatigue can significantly impair your ability to drive safely, and it’s a danger that — both old and young drivers — should be aware of. Senior drivers, in particular, may experience more fatigue due to health conditions, medications, or longer trips. Fatigue is also a main contributor to slower reaction times, making it difficult to focus on the road and increasing the risk of being involved in a collision.
When feeling tired, it’s always better to take a break. Find a safe place to pull over and rest, or consider driving with a companion to share the responsibility. If possible, avoid driving at night, as low visibility and tiredness behind the wheel can be a dangerous combination.
Studies have found that driving when fatigued is just as risky as drunk driving. Most responsible and older drivers may have the wisdom to avoid alcohol. However, overconfidence seems to be common as we age especially when underestimating the consequence of sleep deprivation.
6. Know Your Vehicle
Just like our bodies, older vehicles may require more attention to ensure they stay agile and roadworthy. Routine maintenance is crucial to avoid unexpected breakdowns, which can put you at risk. Check your brakes, lights, tyres, and other essential components regularly. In recent years, newer car models have been designed with better safety features. Consider upgrading to a car with modern safety features such as lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and backup cameras. These features can effectively alert you of your surroundings and reduce the risk of accidents.
7. Limit Distractions, Especially Mobile Phones
Now more than ever, distracted driving has become a leading cause of many crashes. Our increased use of gadgets, our smartphones in particular, has become not only a bad habit but a dangerous one. Using a mobile phone while driving is especially hazardous. And it’s not just answering a call or responding to a text these days. Unnecessary scrolling while waiting for the traffic light can also lead to life-altering consequences. Taking your eyes off the road, even for just a second, can result in a crash. That’s why it’s better to keep your mobile phone out of reach while driving and use hands-free devices if absolutely necessary.
It’s also essential to avoid other distractions, like adjusting the radio or eating. Always keep your focus on the road and other road users when behind the wheel. Otherwise, find a safe spot to pull over if you need to.
8. Be Extra Cautious at Intersections and Roundabouts
Intersections are common crash sites which makes it crucial to be extra cautious when approaching them. Even the most law-abiding driver should look out for pedestrians, cyclists, or other road users who may not have the right of way. If you’re turning, make sure to use your indicators early to alert other drivers of your intentions.
Roundabouts can also be tricky, so take extra care when approaching them. Yield to cars already in the roundabout and be mindful of other cars that may be speeding or cutting across lanes.
9. Adjust for Weather Conditions
If you know NSW, you know that weather conditions can vary greatly. You can be driving in the rain with wet roads that reduce traction or with fog that can severely limit visibility. These forces of nature and physics are best unchallenged. So, when driving in bad weather, slow down, use your headlights, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
When driving at night, ensure your headlights are on and properly adjusted. This is to avoid blinding other drivers. It’s also important to keep your windows and mirrors clean to ensure you have the best possible visibility. Even these small details will make sure you contribute to everyone’s safe driving experience.
Summing it up
Driving safely is a responsibility we all share, regardless of age. For senior drivers, understanding the importance of safe driving techniques, maintaining a safe distance, and staying aware of the road rules can help you reduce the risk of road crashes. By staying educated on defensive driving, adhering to speed limits, and avoiding distractions, you can enjoy the freedom of the road safely. Always drive responsibly, respect other road users, and never hesitate to seek professional advice or assistance when needed.
Getting older means getting wiser, so let’s put our wisdom into good use by making every journey a safe one for everyone.
