Safe Driving Tips for New York Seniors
Did you know that senior citizens are one of the safest groups of drivers in New York? Many people are surprised by this, especially since seniors tend to be stereotyped as bad drivers. Experts theorize that seniors may be more prudent behind the wheel because they are more likely to observe speed limits and less likely to drive under the influence.
Unfortunately, senior citizens are still one of the most vulnerable groups of drivers on the road. They are the second-most likely age group to be injured in a car accident, coming in second only to teen drivers. A recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that an average of 648 older adults are injured in a crash every day. If you are a senior driver, you must take extra care to keep yourself safe on the road. Do you know how to prevent yourself from suffering any serious injuries in an auto accident?
Risk Factors
As bodies age, they often become more fragile. Some older adults may find that their vision is declining to the extent that it is affecting their driving. Many medical conditions that often come with age, such as arthritis, may also affect one’s driving abilities. Finally, prescription medication also has the potential to interfere with seniors’ driving. It may also prolong recovery time, as may bone fragility.
Safety Tips
Fortunately, most car accidents are preventable. Taking proper precautions can dramatically lessen your chances of getting in a crash. Many safety tips lie in common sense: Drive 
defensively, keep a safe following distance, avoid distractions, and plan your route before departure. Try to drive only in the best possible conditions. Limit your time on the road when it is dark out or when traffic is particularly congested. Wait out bad weather whenever possible. Take the safest routes whenever possible, and avoid making unprotected turns or tricky parking situations.
Seniors should also take care to maintain a regular exercise program and to make regular visits to any necessary physicians (such as the optometrist and pharmacist). Reviewing medication side effects is a particularly good idea. Doing all this will help keep you at the top of your game, ensuring that you are maintaining strength and flexibility. Remember not to overextend your physical capabilities. You may also find it helpful to review the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)’s “Driving Safely While Aging Gracefully.” Keeping a vigilant watch on your behavior can help prevent problems before they even have the chance to happen.
Seeking Legal Help
If you or a loved one were recently involved in a car accident, we at Gattuso & Ciottoli, PLLC may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced New York auto accident attorneys. We draw on over 50 years of combined legal experience to serve you as best we can. We proudly serve the Central New York area, including Syracuse, Syracuse, Watertown, Binghamton, North Syracuse, Camillus, Liverpool, Cortland, and Auburn.