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New self-assessment tool helps all drivers stay safe

You probably haven't taken a driving test since you were a teenager. While you know and abide by the rules of the road, ask yourself: Do I sometimes squint to read road signs? Is my response time sufficient for most traffic situations, or have I recently had a few “close calls”? Do I combine mirrors and visual checks to change lanes or reverse, or do I go out of my way to avoid twisting my neck and/or back?

Even drivers with years of experience can benefit from a periodic review of their driving skills, particularly as vision and flexibility levels change. Many times, drivers adopt self-imposed solutions—avoiding lane switches, steering clear of night driving, and parking away from other vehicles—to reduce risk. But most drivers are understandably hesitant to voice doubts or introduce restrictions that could lessen their freedom of mobility.

The good news is that, once identified, many driver safety issues related to physiological changes can be addressed so drivers can continue to drive safely. Recent scientific research shows that specialized training can actually help improve some of the cognitive and physical declines associated with aging. Solutions may range from stronger eyeglasses to consultation with a physician for flexibility or memory exercises.

AAA is committed to helping drivers continue to drive for as long as is safely possible. As part of AAA's “Lifelong Safe Mobility” initiative, AAA is working to help all drivers know and understand their capabilities and challenges behind the wheel. With the help of noted transportation safety researchers, AAA has developed AAA Roadwise Review: a Tool to Help Seniors Drive Safely Longer, an at-home, easy-to-use, scientifically validated screening tool available on CD-ROM.

Through a series of explanatory video segments and interactive measures, AAA Roadwise Review guides users through the program. Working with a partner, users can progress at their own pace, repeating the instructions and pausing the program as needed.

Assessments measure the user's ability to see in low light and scan across a field of view, visual acuity, flexibility, and other skills proven to be among the leading predictors of crash risk among older drivers. In addition, the program offers information on how to improve or compensate for functional abilities that tend to decline over the years. Users are encouraged to repeat the review periodically, recording their results for easy comparison over time.

Members of AAA Colorado can find out more about the program at www.aaa.com. To purchase the program starting in mid-January 2005, call 303-753-8800, ext. 2323.