Too Cool For Driving School?

Jason Erskine, AARP Washington

Popular Program Shows Driver’s Ed Still Relevant for People 50+

Some drivers over the age of 50 have never looked back since they first got their license, likely at around age 16, but participation in refresher courses like the AARP Driver Safety Program shows that even the most experienced drivers can benefit when given the chance to brush up on their driving skills. The program has been completed by more than 12 million people since 1979.

One of the program’s graduates said, "I have driven more than three million miles as a commercial driver. Even with that record behind me, I have to keep an open mind, refresh my skills and learn new rules of the road. The AARP Driver Safety Program taught me a lot about normal age-related changes that I didn't realize. I know I'm a better driver for it."

A lot has changed since many drivers 50+ first took a driver’s education course. If you’re thinking you don’t need to update your abilities behind the wheel, try this quick quiz:

Q: Where should you have your hands on the steering wheel?

A: If you were taught the 10 and 2 grip, you’re incorrect, but you’re not alone. Rules of the road have changed over the years, and the right answer is the 8 and 4 or 9 and 3 position, which will help avoid injury if airbags inflate in a crash.

Q: If you have anti-lock brakes, should you pump your brakes to stop?

A: Unlike standard brakes used in the past, when you need to brake quickly using anti-lock brake systems (ABS), depress the brake pedal in a steady downward motion to stop.  ABS technology automatically pumps the brakes for you.
 
To easily remember the correct ABS braking technique, think: STOMP (firmly depress the brake), STAY (stay on the brakes and don’t pump them) and STEER (steer where you want to go while braking).

Elinor Ginzler, AARP’s Senior Vice President of Livable Communities, said, "The AARP Driver Safety Program refresher courses provide an excellent way to evaluate your current abilities, learn compensation techniques to accommodate for aging, and increase your safety while out on the roads. Ninety-five percent of our graduates tell us they change their driving behavior as a result of taking our course.”

Added Ginzler, "Today about 1 in 7 drivers is 65 or older. This figure is expected to rise significantly in the years ahead, increasing the need for attention to safety on the road. By the time that the last of the Boomers turn 65 in 2029, about 1 in 4 drivers will be 65 or older."

Age-related changes—such as impaired vision, medications, slower reflexes and response time—can affect your driving skills. The course offers simple techniques that can help you retain your driving skills longer so that you can remain mobile and independent as you age. Consider taking a refresher course to help you stay safe on the road. Also, there are no written or driving tests involved.
 
AARP Driver Safety Program courses are offered by trained volunteer instructors throughout the state. Courses are now available in both a classroom setting and online. The Program helps drivers 50+ become more aware of changes that occur due to aging, and how to adjust driving accordingly. In Washington State those who complete the 8-hour course are entitled to discounts on their car insurance. Information on the AARP Driver Safety Program can be found at www.aarp.org/drive or by calling 1-888-AARP NOW (1-888-227-7669).