Driving for Seniors

Review the DMV Driver Handbook. Try to read this every year. You will Learn the new laws and review old ones. Go to www.dmv.ca.gov and search for “Driver Handbook.” Drive defensively. The best way to drive safely is to drive defensively. Be aware that other people make mistakes. Do what you can to stop accidents from happening. • Leave enough space between you and the car in front of you. You need enough room to stop if the car brakes suddenly. • Stay with the flow of traffic. If you drive too slow or too fast, you are more likely to have an accident. • Never insist on the right-of-way, even if you are correct. • Watch the cars around you. If you see a driver who is weaving or driving unsafely, stay away from that car. • Pay careful attention at intersections. Check for pedestrians, bikes, and motorcycles, as well as autos, before you cross or make a turn. Pay attention at all times. • Do not talk on your cell phone while you drive, even if it is hands-free. • Keep the radio volume low and limit talking, so you can hear what is going on around your car. • Do not drink and drive. Drinking affects you more as you age. • Try not to drive when you are tired, angry, worried, or depressed. You are less likely to pay attention to your driving. Lower your costs with safe driver discounts. A mature driver improvement course can lower your auto insurance costs. If you are 55 years or older and you complete a DMV-approved mature driver improvement course, most auto insurance companies will lower your premiums for up to 3 years. You can usually keep the lower rates if you take the course again every 3 years. To find an approved course near you, go to www.dmv.ca.gov and search for “mature driver.” Or call the DMV’s toll-free consumer line at 1-800-777-0133. 9