Experts warn aging baby boomers could be road risks
Posted Nov 9, 2010 12:10:41 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
As baby boomers age, there are increasing concerns around the driving skills of older motorists, and whether those treated for various medical conditions could become major hazards on the roads.
The United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is holding a two-day forum beginning Tuesday. The forum will help individuals better understand the safety risks that older drivers face.
Beverly McClellan, 79, still has a razor sharp wit; it’s just her eyes that are failing her.
“Last summer I was driving on a country road and I knew that I had some cataracts and I couldn’t see. I knew the road. I’ve been there 30 years, but I couldn’t see it in the dark,” McClellan said.
U.S. Transportation experts said older drivers generally have slower reflexes and can’t properly judge speed and distance.
McClellan said boomers take pride in being able to drive, and Silvana Aceto with CAA said family members may have to help seniors cut off the engine for good.
“Give them some other solutions such as using a taxi, the public transit – that is still an option – or car pooling with friends,” she said.
McClellan said she’s mentally preparing herself to give up her licence, so she doesn’t end up hurting herself or others in a crash.
A 40-year-old needs 20 times more light than a 20-year-old to see at night. Older drivers may be more easily confused, and are less flexible, which affects their ability to turn or check their blind spots.
