AAA Helps Mature Drivers Choose “Smart” Vehicles
Phoenix, Ariz.,
March 21, 2008 – By 2020, there will be more than 40 million licensed drivers ages 65 and older. In addition, the 65 and over age group ranks second in traffic fatalities. To keep this growing driving population safer on our roadways, AAA, in partnership with the University of Florida’s National Older Driver Research and Training Center (NODRTC), released today its list of the best vehicle features for older drivers.
The Smart Features for Mature Drivers report identifies the best vehicle features to assist drivers with the physical and mental changes associated with aging. It addresses common conditions faced by senior adults which may affect driving ability, including diminished vision, arthritic hands, hip and leg pain and limited upper-body range of motion.
“The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in 2006, 150 drivers over the age of 65 were involved in fatal crashes on Arizona roadways,” said AAA Arizona Public Affairs Manager Linda Gorman. “With Arizona’s large retirement population, it is imperative that the specific needs of aging motorists be addressed in order for them to continue to drive safely.”
In fact, a recent survey conducted by AAA found that 40 percent of motorists over the age of 65 suffered from at least one of nine driving related difficulties commonly caused by aging, and nearly one in five motorists over 65 plan to buy or lease a new vehicle in the next two years.
Because many of the changes our bodies experience as we age can affect our ability to safely operate a vehicle, AAA recommends mature drivers look for vehicles with features that address their specific needs and health issues.
Some of the recommendations in Smart Features for Mature Drivers include:
- Drivers suffering from hip or leg pain, decreased leg strength or limited knee range of motion should look for vehicles with six-way adjustable power seats and seat heights that come between the driver’s mid-thigh and lower buttocks. Both of these features can make it easier for drivers to enter and exit a vehicle. Examples of vehicles to look for: Ford Edge, Honda Element.
- Drivers with arthritic hands and painful or stiff fingers would benefit from four-door models, thick steering wheels, keyless entry and ignition, power mirrors and seats and larger dashboard controls with buttons. The Toyota Camry is one example of a car that can benefit drivers with diminished fine motor skills.
- Drivers with diminished vision or problems with low contrast sensitivity will find helpful options such as extendable sun visors, large audio and climate controls and displays with contrasting text. Examples of vehicles to look for: Chevrolet Impala and Mazda 6.
Smart Features for Mature Drivers also includes vehicle features recommended for all seniors, regardless of health issues, such as:
- Proven crashworthiness, crash test and rollover ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (safercar.gov) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (iihs.org/ratings).
- Side and dual-stage/threshold airbags that adjust the deployment force based on the severity of the crash.
- Adjustable head restraints and extra padding.
- Antilock brakes.
- Dynamic stability control.
Drivers can also enlist the help of AAA’s Car Buying Service when searching for a new or used vehicle to fit them properly. Visit www.aaaaz.com/auto/carbuying.htm or call 480-858-0445 (toll-free 1-877-943-3539) for more information.
For a complete list of the best features and recommended vehicles for senior drivers, visit www.AAAAZ.com/news/seniordrivers.htm
AAA Arizona, the Arizona affiliate of AAA, provides automotive, insurance and auto travel services to nearly 775,000 Arizona members. Annually, AAA’s Emergency Road Service responds to more than 450,000 calls for help on the streets and highways of the state as well as providing insurance, travel, and financial services to AAA members and motorists. Since its founding in 1927, AAA Arizona has been a leading advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.
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