DRIVING PROGRAMS FOR SENIORS

By 2030, more than 70 million Americans will be 65 or older and 90% of them will be licensed to drive. Seniors are more likely to be hurt in a car crash, even though they are more likely to wear safety belts and less likely to speed or drink and drive. In response, AAA is offering driving programs to help seniors stay mobile for as long as safely possible.

AAA offers a variety of options to Senior drivers including classroom, in-car and computer based courses to teach safer driving skills and to help you drive longer.

DRIVING COURSES OFFERED BY AAA

Register for any of the programs listed below by calling (800) 836-CLUB.

Defensive Driving Course: If you take our state-approved defensive driving course, you'll benefit by

• Reducing up to four points from your driving record and save 10% on the collision and liability portions of your insurance;
• Learning to take a proactive approach to driving safety;
• Refreshing and sharpening your driving knowledge;
• Reviewing safe driving tips and vehicle and traffic laws

Cost: $35 members, $41 non-members
For more information or to register for a Defensive Driving course, click here or call 1-800-836-CLUB

In-Car Evaluations: If you're unsure of your ability to perform tasks required for driving, AAA has certified driving instructors to assist you in evaluating and monitoring your driving skills. AAA driving experts are available to help you in making responsible choices that protect you and others on the road.
Cost: $70 members, $80 non-members
For more call 1-800-836-CLUB

AAA Roadwise Review: Rate your own driving skills using AAA's computer-based course. This tool allows seniors to measure the eight functional abilities shown to be the strongest predictors of crash risk among older drivers.

The abilities assessed in Roadwise Review include:

• Leg Strength and General Mobility
• Head/Neck Flexibility
• High- and Low-Contrast Visual Acuity
• Working Memory
• Visualization of Missing Information
• Visual Search
• Useful Field of View

Cost: $20 members, $25 non-members
To purchase a Roadwise Review CD by email or call (716) 630-3727. AAA offers AAA Roadwise Review courses at their Amherst and Penfield office locations. CD's can also be purchsed for at home use. Request a CD by email or call (716) 630-3727.

CarFit

What is CarFit for the older driver?
CarFit is an educational program that offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles "fit" them.

The CarFit program also provides information and materials on community-specific resources that could enhance their safety as drivers, and/or increase their mobility in the community.

Why is CarFit important?
Older drivers are often the safest drivers in that they are more likely to wear their seatbelts, and less likely to speed or drink and drive. However, older drivers are more likely to be killed or seriously injured when a crash does occur due to the greater fragility of their aging bodies.

Driver safety programs improve adult driver safety by addressing cognitive abilities and skills, however, older drivers can also improve their safety by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted for them. A proper fit in one's car can greatly increase not only the driver's safety but also the safety of others.

How is a CarFit check completed?
At a CarFit event, a team of trained technicians and/or health professionals work with each participant to ensure they "fit" their vehicle properly for maximum comfort and safety. A CarFit check takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.

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