Signs It May Be Time to Limit or Stop Driving
Changes in driving ability can happen gradually. Sometimes you notice them yourself; other times, family members, friends, or passengers may recognize changes before you do.
Consider whether you have experienced any of the following:
Driving Experiences and Safety
- Having frequent close calls or almost being involved in a crash.
- Finding unexplained dents or scrapes on your vehicle, garage door, mailbox, fences, or curbs.
- Getting lost, particularly when traveling familiar routes.
- Having difficulty seeing traffic signals, road signs, or pavement markings.
- Responding more slowly to unexpected situations or having difficulty moving your foot between the accelerator and brake.
- Misjudging distances or gaps in traffic at intersections or highway entrances and exits.
- Having difficulty turning to check behind you when backing up or changing lanes.
- Becoming easily distracted or having trouble concentrating while driving.
- Experiencing frustration or anger behind the wheel or receiving frequent complaints from other drivers.
- Receiving multiple traffic tickets or warnings from law enforcement.
Health and Physical Changes
- Experiencing changes in vision, hearing, mobility, flexibility, or coordination that make driving more difficult.
- Having a health condition that may affect driving, including heart problems, diabetes, seizures, dizziness, or episodes of impaired awareness.
- Starting a new medication that may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or other side effects that affect driving.
When Others Express Concern
- Family members or friends have expressed concern about your driving.
- Passengers frequently feel uncomfortable or nervous riding with you.
- Someone has suggested that you limit your driving, avoid certain roads, or reconsider driving altogether.
- Others have noticed changes in your driving habits, such as slower responses, difficulty navigating, or trouble parking.
- You have been involved in conversations with family members or healthcare professionals about whether driving is still the best transportation choice.
What Should You Do If You Recognize These Signs?
Not every concern means you need to stop driving immediately. Some issues may be addressed through updated eyeglasses, medication reviews with your healthcare provider, physical therapy, or a professional driving evaluation.
A driver rehabilitation specialist can assess vision, physical abilities, and cognitive skills, along with behind-the-wheel performance, to help determine whether driving adjustments or other transportation options should be considered.
Remember: Listening to concerns from people you trust is an important part of making informed decisions about driving. Exploring transportation alternatives early can help you maintain your independence and confidence, whatever decision you make.
Low Cost Transit for Disabled Individuals
If you have a temporary or on-going disability that results in you having to stop driving, you may qualify for low-cost Paratransit. Link to Frequently Asked Questions | FTA (dot.gov) which will provide ADA compliant transportation to medical appointments and the grocery store. To find a Paratransit Provider in your community conduct an on-line search for paratransit and include your home address or ask for a referral from your Doctor.
Do you have an issue that can be corrected? Investigate Driver Rehabilitation
A Driver Rehabilitation Specialist can administer a comprehensive driving evaluation that looks at all areas needed for driving (vision, physical functioning and cognition) as well as doing a thorough behind the wheel evaluation.
That information is very useful with decision making about whether it is time to stop driving.
Click Here to find a driver rehab specialist near you.
Auto Insurance Discounts for Drivers 55 and older
Revised State Statutes state that auto insurance companies offer a reduction in rates for drivers aged fifty-five years or older who complete a driver's education course.
It may be worth the savings to take the driver's refresher course.
Refer to your Auto Insurance provider for a list of approved Driver's Safety Programs and the discount they offer.