State agencies, partners offer resources to keep older drivers safe

        In recognition of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, which was observed Dec. 4-8, Gov. Mike DeWine, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), the Ohio Traffic Safety Office (OTSO), the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA), and AAA issued a reminder to Ohioans about new resources and programs to prevent serious injuries and fatalities among Ohio’s older drivers.
        “My administration is focused on the safety of everyone who travels on Ohio’s roads,” said DeWine. “It’s important that we continue to help older Ohioans with strategies to drive safely and to support families as they navigate concerns about their loved ones getting behind the wheel.”
        People age 65 and older make up the fastest-growing segment of drivers nationally and in Ohio.
        By 2030, the state will have more than 4.8 million residents who are 65 and older. Deaths involving older drivers have been rising post-pandemic, as drivers resume normal activities.
        ODOT data shows that the number of deaths involving older drivers hit a 10-year high in 2021. Last year, 296 people age 65 or older died in crashes on Ohio’s roads, representing 23% of all traffic deaths statewide.
        The state is working to improve older driver safety through the expansion of CarFit, an educational program developed by AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association to improve older driver safety and comfort behind the wheel.
        “We know that mobility is critical for healthy living, but as we age, changes in our vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion, and even size and height may make us less comfortable and reduce our control behind the wheel,” said Kara Hitchens from AAA Club Alliance. “CarFit provides older adults with the tools to understand and take safety measures while driving.”
        At a CarFit event, trained volunteers complete a 12-point checklist with each driver. Occupational therapists are also on hand to provide a consultation, if needed.
        OTSO, a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety, is providing federal funds from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging to launch this statewide effort to establish consistency and growth of the CarFit program throughout Ohio.
        Since May, Ohio’s statewide CarFit coordinator has led nearly two dozen events and trainings, established communication channels with Ohio CarFit volunteers, and started collecting data to gauge CarFit’s impact. So far in 2023, there have been 57 CarFit events and trainings in Ohio – surpassing the record of 41 in 2018.
        “Our office is committed to making Ohio’s roads safer, and we are honored to play a role in bringing CarFit to more Ohioans,” said Kimberly Schwind, Assistant Director of the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. “We encourage older drivers and their families to take part in this fun, fast and free program and to educate themselves on all the resources available to help improve safety and mobility on Ohio’s roads.”
        In addition to CarFit, 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 free guide about how driver rehabilitation specialists can evaluate older drivers’ ability to drive safely.
        “When we make our roadways safer for older drivers, those efforts trickle down to other drivers. Our ongoing priority is providing a transportation system that is safe. With one of the largest safety investments in the nation, our team continues to turn that priority into effective projects throughout the state,” said ODOT Director Jack Marchbanks.
        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.
        “Driving is a symbol of freedom for many older Ohioans. At the Ohio Department of Aging, we empower older adults to maintain their independence in all aspects of daily life. This includes educating people about the importance of safe driving practices,” said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. “When it comes to getting behind the wheel, there are steps older drivers can take to maximize their safety on the roads so they can get around with confidence.”00
        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.
        Learn more about CarFit at car-fit.org.