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What Care Should The Elderly Have When Driving?

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A senior moving to a new state should be extra careful when being driven around. Keep reading to learn more.

It’s one of the safest places for older people to drive. Motorists over the age of 80 must renew their licenses and have their vision checked every year.

Here are some things older adults can do to stay safe when they drive in Florida: Make sure you follow the speed limit, use your blinkers, and buckle up.

Driving In Florida With An Elderly Passenger? Use Extra Caution!

As an adult, you are responsible for your actions while behind the wheel. While your aging parents should always be of sound mind and legally capable of driving, some exceptions exist. Florida is home to many elderly drivers, including those in their 70s, 80s, and 90s. 

If you are concerned about the safety of an elderly driver behind the wheel, it may be best to have them assessed by a professional.

Causes Of Driving Difficulties With Age In Florida

Statistics show that drivers over the age of 60 are significantly more likely to be involved in car crashes than younger drivers. Florida leads the nation in the number of over-65 drivers who have been killed in car accidents. Although older drivers are generally safer drivers, accidents with older drivers are far more likely to cause fatalities. 

Here are a few causes of driving difficulties with age in Florida.

  • Using statistics from the Florida Department of Transportation, researchers were able to identify a significant number of drivers who have experienced driving difficulties. The survey involved more than 1,000 Floridians, half of whom were between 50 and 64 years old. The survey results will help the coalition monitor the strategic safety plan and identify additional needs. The survey included telephone and Internet surveys conducted by medical professionals and family members.
  • Concerning age-related vision problems, many states have stricter rules for older drivers. For example, Florida requires elderly drivers to take eye tests every six years. A physician must report any potential unsafe driver to the state. The elderly driver should also consider getting a senior driving assessment to assess their driving ability. In addition to driving difficulties, aging can cause aches and joint pain and affect reflexes and balance.
  • Other causes of driving difficulties with age include reduced coordination, difficulty reading, vision, and poor concentration. Drivers must also be cautious and adhere to Florida traffic laws. For example, drivers over 80 must have a vision test to renew their license. Taking these tests can prevent car accidents and save lives. 
  • Further, they help older drivers stay informed about their health issues. If you are concerned about the safety of older drivers, consider taking a driver’s course in Florida to learn about the laws and regulations related to driving.

Elderly Drivers In Florida: Beware Of Dangerous Driving Habits

The majority of law enforcement officers in Florida have some knowledge of the symptoms and clues that indicate a potentially impaired driver. However, only 30 percent regularly look for the medical identification bracelet of older drivers. 

In addition to taking periodic vision tests, older drivers should also undergo regular medical exams. Routine medical and eye exams are essential to ensure safety and avoid any potential medical issues affecting driving. If the driver is over eighty, they must undergo a vision test, either through a physician or at a DMV office. If the driver has recently received a ticket, this could indicate a more severe health issue that needs attention.

  • The first warning sign of an unsafe elderly driver is slow driving. Slow responses to traffic signs, inattention to other road users, and inability to make lane changes are some of the first indicators of an unsafe elderly driver. 
  • Further, it is essential to note that around eighty percent of the elderly drivers studied were 75 years old. Sixty percent of respondents reported that they could not intervene and help their elderly loved one drive safely.
  • The elderly driver should undergo an annual eye exam and wear a seatbelt while driving. A new eye exam is required for every six-year renewal. Elderly drivers should also refrain from using electronic devices while driving. 
  • It is also recommended that they set up navigation while parking safely. The use of seat belts in an automobile is essential to saving lives. The elderly driver should always wear a seatbelt and use a visor or other safety device.

Efforts To Ease The Transition For Florida’s Aging Drivers

Many older people have a hard time staying calm on the road as time goes on. Florida has laws to make it easier for older people to get around by public transportation, so they don’t have to drive anymore. 

You can do a few things to help your loved ones keep their independence while they drive. Here are some helpful tips for caregivers and their families for safe driving.

  • Learning to drive safely is important because aging makes it harder to react quickly. Drivers often make decisions based on what they can see, which can be hard to do. However, if you buy a new car, you have to follow a new set of rules and regulations. 
  • They should get help from a professional who knows how to help older drivers stay independent in their communities when they can’t drive anymore. Your senior should also meet with an occupational therapist, who can help them get used to the new job.
  • They should be encouraged to use public transportation instead of their car. It’s possible to get a free or low-cost carrier for the elderly. There are many programs for this. 
  • If your elderly relative still has a car, ask other people to drive them around, so they don’t have to drive. This will make sure that they don’t lose their independence. 
  • Hire a driver if you don’t want to give them a ride. If this isn’t possible, make arrangements with an elder care provider to get them to and from the hospital.

Bottom-line

The best way to get the most money for your injuries after a car accident is to hire a lawyer with a lot of experience with insurance companies. To avoid problems, you need car accident lawyers who have a lot of experience fighting with insurance companies and making deals. They also need to have a good name in personal injury law. 

It is the Ovadia Law Group‘s specialty to deal with personal injury cases, and the goal of the law firm is to get you the most money possible for your injuries. Thousands of people have been helped by them, and they have a lot of experience. In addition, they also give you personalized service so that you get the best legal help you can get. 

A customized approach by Ovadia Law Group attorneys will ensure a timely and efficient settlement of your dispute. The offices are located in Miami, Boca Raton, Fort Myers, and Orlando, Florida.

If you need a lawyer for a car accident, call 1-800-674-9396 today to talk about your case. An attorney from Ovadia Law Group can help you get the money you need to pay for your medical bills and other expenses. Attorneys specializing in auto insurance can help you fight back against these tactics. 

Schedule a Free Consultation

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