State agencies partner to keep older drivers safe

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As part of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week (December 2-6, 2024), Governor Mike DeWine, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), the Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO), and the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) are reminding Ohioans about programs available to prevent serious injuries and fatalities among Ohio's older drivers.

People aged 65 and older make up the fastest-growing segment of drivers nationally and in Ohio. According to crash data from ODOT, older road users make up 23% of all traffic fatalities in the last three years and by 2030, the state will have more than 4.8 million residents who are 65 and older.

"Safety is our number one priority for anyone who travels on Ohio's roads," said Governor DeWine. "Driving is a great way to maintain independence, and we hope older Ohioans and their loved ones reacquaint themselves with safe driving tips, especially during Older Driver Safety Awareness Week."

This year's theme for Older Driver Safety Awareness Week (ODSAW) is "Understand, Be Proactive, Plan", stressing the importance of everyone working together to support older Ohioans driving as long as possible, and as safe as possible.

Understand: It's important for older drivers to understand that the fit of their seatbelt, visibility, and knowledge of vehicle controls can make a difference in reducing injuries in the event of a crash. OTSO has been working to expand CarFit, an educational program developed by AAA, AARP, and the American Occupational Therapy Association aimed at improving older driver safety and comfort behind the wheel. At a CarFit event, trained volunteers complete a 12-point checklist with each driver to ensure safety and comfort within their vehicle. Find an event near you by visiting https://car-fit.org/

"CarFit is not about assessing someone's driving skills," said Kimberly Schwind, Assistant Director of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. "Instead, it's about finding each driver's best position in a vehicle to keep them driving safely. Older adults who participate in one of these events often leave with some kind of new tip or solution to help them become a safer, more confident driver."

Safe driver courses can also help older drivers understand age-related physical changes, and learn up-to-date driving techniques. Drivers can access several online courses, such as those offered through AARP or AAA. In addition, OTSO also has approved in-person mature driver education programs in Ohio, designed to update drivers over the age of 60 on new laws and best practices for safe driving. Those who successfully complete a licensed course will receive a certificate to present to their insurance provider for a discount on their auto insurance policy. A list of providers can be found at DriverTraining.Ohio.gov.

Be Proactive: As with other life changes, planning ahead can make the decision to "retire from driving" easier. Ohio has a variety of state and local program resources that can help older drivers adopt strategies to stay safe on the road, as well as find alternatives to driving if they can no longer do so safely. These resources can be found on the website, transportation.ohio.gov/olderdrivers.

Several new resources were added to the website this year, including a guide designed for family members who may be concerned about their loved one's ability to drive safely.

"Our team is always looking for ways to improve safety on the transportation system through engineering and education. When we make our roads safer for older drivers, we make it safer for all drivers," said ODOT Director Pamela Boratyn.

ODOT's Older Road User Emphasis Area Team recently developed a new tool for law enforcement to identify drivers with cognitive impairments. After ruling out alcohol or drugs, an officer can use the DOSCI tool (Driver Orientation Screen for Cognitive Impairment) to ask the driver nine questions related to person, place and time. The driver's score is used to determine if the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) should be notified for a possible re-examination and/or medical follow up.

Plan: In addition, ODA has tips and resources for older Ohioans and their families. They help older drivers maintain their driving abilities and independence and understand the factors that affect their ability to stay behind the wheel safely. They also provide advice for discussing the topic with family members and finding transportation resources. Visit aging.ohio.gov/olderdrivers.

"The Ohio Department of Aging encourages all older Ohioans to take steps to ensure their safety on the roads," said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. "Older drivers often face unique challenges, and it's important that families, caregivers, and State agencies all work together to help them maintain independence while reducing risks to themselves and others."

To help improve safety, state partners offer the following tips for older drives and their families:

• Stay aware of your changing physical, vision, and hearing abilities and adjust your driving habits accordingly.
• Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any medical conditions you have or medications you take could make it unsafe to drive.
• Do most of your driving during daylight and in good weather. Avoid busy roadways and rush hours whenever possible.
• Plan your route before you drive and choose routes with well-lit streets, intersections with left turn signals, and easy parking.
• Avoid distractions while driving, including talking or texting on a cell phone, eating, or listening to a loud radio.
• Leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can react if the other driver stops or slows suddenly.

Always wear a seat belt to keep you safe and secure in your vehicle; the seat belt slows you down and spreads crash forces over the strongest parts of your body.

About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.