Canadians are living longer, and driving longer. As the Baby Boom retires, the number of senior drivers on the road is increasing too. And while more experience is a good thing, so is awareness that some age-related changes are inevitable. (quoted from CAA)

Considerations when driving

• Prepare for trip
• Time considerations
• Route planning
  Weather conditions
• Night Driving
• Know your comfort level and adjust accordingly

New Technologies

Know features of your vehicle in advance – no distractions while driving;

Know how to adjust:

• Mirrors
• Seats
• Headrests
• Headlights vs daytime running lights

Winter Driving

Install winter tires

Ensure these are in proper working order or are in your vehicle when travelling:

• Heater
• Defrost
  Wiper blades
• Lights
• Washer fluid
• Gas tank at least ½ full

President Wayne Cooper presenting a “Thank You” to Sgt. Sean Hawley of the O.P.P. for his very informative talk on Seniors’ Safe Driving tips at recent Annual Meeting.

Survival Kit:

• Shovel
• Blanket
• Warm Clothes
• Booster Cables
• High energy food
• Water
• Flashlight
• Matches/Candle
• Carry cell phone for emergencies

Handling Emergencies:

• Hazard Lights
• Pull over to the side of the road – even on flat tire
• Call 911 or your roadside assistance club
• Stay in your vehicle with seatbelt on
• Call *511 – Road conditions
• Website: http://www.cdn.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/trip/road_closures.shtml

New Legislation:

Move Over Law

• Motorists are to slow down, proceed with caution when approaching an emergency vehicle
• On a multi-lane highway – slow down and move over one lane if possible

Distracted Driving Law

• Prohibits holding electronic device while driving
• Prohibits adjusting GPS or radio, eating and drinking or multi-tasking while driving

Bob Paterson, Retired OPP Sergeant – The ACID Test

Points to consider for Safer Driving – Older Ontarians

• Are you able to comfortably turn left at a busy intersection?
  Are you comfortable driving at night?
• Are you comfortable using busy multi-lane highways?
• Are you able to parallel park, even when backing into a generously sized spot?
• Can you turn and look to the rear while backing up?
• Are your children comfortable with you transporting your grandchildren in your vehicle?

For more information and resources:

• CAA-tips for seniors and their loved ones www.seniorsdriving.caa.ca
• Ministry of Transportation (MTO) www.mto.gov.on.ca
• Retired OPP Sgt Bob Paterson-ACID test www.seniorsafetytips.ca