One of the reasons senior citizens are notorious for car accidents is that the accidents they are involved in tend to seem like they should have been preventable. For example, a driver going the wrong way on an expressway or someone hitting the gas instead of the brake and therefore plowing into a restaurant when attempting to park. Accidents such as these often have tragic outcomes, whereas a fender bender typically only results in vehicle damage.

Physical and mental changes occur as people age. Some issues that occur with aging and have an impact on driving include:

• Hearing loss
• Vision loss
• Slower reaction time
• Loss of muscle strength impacts steering ability
• Medication may affect focus

If you have a loved one that is a senior driver, make sure you are comfortable that their driving skills are still adequate and that they are still functioning well cognitively. Consider finding a driving class geared towards senior drivers at a local senior center. This will allow driving skills to be reviewed and practiced. It is possible that their insurance premiums will be lowered upon completion of a class. Make sure the car your senior loved one drives is one that they can operate safely and comfortably. Check to see if the laws in your area require elderly drivers to take a refresher course or be tested to remain licensed.

By taking the above steps, you can help ensure that your loved one is safe on the road. You may also prevent another news story that makes senior drivers seem dangerous!

Drivers of all ages need the right coverage. Call McCune and Reed Insurance at 641-682-8027 for more information on auto insurance.