Road safety for senior drivers

In order to continue driving, seniors in Quebec must have a medical examination and take a vision test and submit a certificate of completion at least six months before their 75th and 80th birthdays, and every two years thereafter.

Being able to drive is not a matter of age but of health. A healthy diet, good sleep, and regular exercise help seniors maintain and improve their well-being.

At any age, a comprehensive medical exam can reveal physical or mental problems that could affect driving ability. Healthcare professionals can also assess an individual’s decision-making skills, reaction time, muscle strength, and flexibility. A physician should also point out any potential side effects from new medications, especially as they relate to driving.

Know your (new) limits

Many older drivers voluntarily self-regulate by deciding to stop driving at night, in rush hour, or in bad weather and sticking to familiar routes.

Humans shrink as they age. By age 75, we may lose 3 in. (7.5 cm) in height, which is why it is so important to take time to make the proper vehicle adjustments between drivers, annually, or when driving a new car.

Can’t make most of these adjustments to your existing vehicle? Still have crank windows, manual locks, and other outdated features? You would most likely be safer and more comfortable in a newer vehicle.

Driving is a demanding activity. At the very least, before getting behind the wheel, every driver should make sure they are fit to drive (mentally and physically), get their vehicle road-ready, and make a mental road map

Streets and routes

Choosing certain streets can make driving a whole lot easier for seniors.

“Before going anywhere, I make a mental road map of my itinerary: which route I’ll take, which lanes I’ll drive in. I think through the entire trip so I can take the safest and most efficient route to my destination. That way I know what I’m doing in advance, so I know what to expect and what to do when I’m behind the wheel.”

— C. Berthiaume

Refresher courses

The Highway Safety Code is being amended and new signs and signals are being added to better reflect the new realities on the road. A refresher course is an opportunity for senior drivers to brush up on their skills and knowledge and also learn new techniques to offset the effects of aging.