Seniors urged to sign up for driving course

Seniors urged to sign up for Nov. 24 driving course

BY CARLA ALLEN

The Coast Guard

NovaNewsNow.com

The first thing instructor Lisa Rodgerson wants seniors to know is there isn’t a driver’s test associated with the 55 Alive senior mature driving course on Saturday, Nov. 24 at the Barrington Passage Library.

The course, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., is intended to help older drivers maintain their independence and their driving privileges.

“It’s designed to help them gain more confidence behind the wheel, improve their awareness of traffic hazards, update them on traffic laws and new technology, anticipate the actions of the other drivers and identify and correct bad driving habits,” said Rodgerson.

According to the Canada Safety Council, while older drivers have more experience driving and tend to have fewer accidents than those in the other age groups, their crash rates for the number of kilometers they drive are amongst the highest of all the age groups.

At this time there is no requirement for seniors to be retested for their license.

The 55 Alive course outlines warning signs that could lead to unsafe driving and suggests steps that can be taken to keep seniors and other road users safe while they are behind the wheel.

Rodgerson’s list of some common warning signs includes: not scanning surroundings properly, failing to use turn signals, not being able to see during night time hours, right of way errors and physical immobility.

With increasing age and decreasing proficiency, driving adjustments will help to reduce risks.

“They may decide to drive only in daylight hours, or during non rush hour traffic,” said Rodgerson.

“They may wish to drive in familiar surroundings, drive with a friend to help watch for hazards or decide to drive within a certain radius from home,” she said.

Driving concerns and questions will be discussed in a supportive and relaxed classroom setting.

Candidates will receive a certificate from Canada Safety Council upon completion of the course, which is recognized by some insurance companies. The Nova Scotia government also rebates 40$ towards the cost of the course to those over 65 years of age. The cost of the course is 60$.

The course is hosted by South West Shore Volunteer Services in partnership with the Shelburne County Driving Training School.

Seating is limited and can be reserved by calling (902) 637-2847 or toll free 1-800-565-0397.