Age creeps up on everyone, and in every driver's life, there comes a day when it is time to stop driving. According to the AAA, older drivers often develop age-related conditions such as arthritis and vision impairments and may need medications with potentially severe side effects.
Age alone doesn't determine whether a person is a safe driver. In some cases, drivers can operate a car safely into their 90s. In other cases, younger drivers in their 30s and 40s deal with chronic conditions that also affect their ability to operate a vehicle safely.
The AAA suggests that family and friends speak privately to someone who may be starting to have problems driving. The situation can be challenging, since in some cases a driver may be in denial about their situation.
Many drivers are reluctant to surrender their driving privileges because they fear losing independence and need reassurance that they will still be able to get around when they need to. Discussing community resources for transportation alternatives may help a driver to understand that they will be safer on the roads and not present a danger to anyone else.
If you have a friend or loved one who you believe may be an at-risk driver, it is important to take steps to help them before serious injuries or even death occurs due to their compromised driving abilities.