Older drivers probably have a lot of good things going for them. They have lots of experience behind the wheel, and they should be mature decision makers. This is mostly true for older drivers in their 50′s and 60′s, and they may be considered good risks by insurers. However, as people start to age into their 70′s and 80′s, some of these positives may be offset by health issues of aging.

Many insurers start to raise premiums at about age 70. Some of them go as far as refusing to cover any drivers over age 80. Because of concerns about older people being fit to drive, most companies consider older people as members of a higher risk group.

It is helpful to compare senior drivers to teen drivers. While your 18 year old son or daughter lacks experience and, possibly maturity, he or she probably has strong limbs, fast reflexes, and good vision. Seniors may start to lose some function because of age and infirmity. While teens and young adults should mature into better drivers, seniors may not be able to expect an increase in function.

Consider some of the warning signs. Some warning signs are obvious, but some can be much more subtle at the beginning. However, if you are caring for an older person, it is important to notice early warning signs so you can avert worse problems or tragedies.

Is a senior driver having more problems finding their way on unfamiliar streets, obeying traffic signs and rules, or even reacting to other traffic? This can be an early sign that some mental or physical health issues are putting them at risk behind the wheel.

New dents in the car can be another sign. If grandma is having a few minor wrecks, and trying to cover them up, this should make you concerned. Most drivers have had minor accidents, but you should be able to notice if these start to increase.

A loss of muscle strength or the pain of age related conditions like arthritis may make it harder to respond to traffic conditions too.

What can you do if you know a risky older driver?

There are some things that care givers and family members can do to help.

Some associations and companies offer senior citizen driving courses. This can help them refresh their skills, adjust to safe driving habits for their age, or even help them understand why they should not drive.

Even the best care giver can have a hard time telling a senor that they should not drive any longer. You can find some support and resources. Some associations even produce coaching videos for this very problem!

Look for alternative transportation to ease the transition. Many communities have busses or cheaper taxi services for senior citizens. Some Medicare health plans provide transportation to health appointments. You can also find senior living communities which have a bus to transport residents to shopping centers and doctors.

All elderly people do not have a driving issue!

People age differently. Some 80 year olds are still very good drivers, and these days, many of these older people still commute to work!

Seniors who are still good drivers may still get hit with higher auto insurance premiums though. Insurers may group them, with their age group, into a high risk band. However, you can shop around and, possibly, find some car insurance discounts to help offset the increased cost.

Get more help with senior driving issues – When Should Senors Stop Driving? Also visit us for tips on surviving other about midlife changes.

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