Alaskan winters provide a great opportunity to contemplate our driving as we take our time navigating darkness and snow. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) observes Older Driver Safety Awareness Week on the first week of December. According to the Centers for Disease Control, older drivers are more likely to be injured in a crash. Fortunately, most injuries can be prevented through simple adjustments you can make to the driver's seat.
For Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, the Center for Safe Alaskans is sharing tips to help you stay safe.
Wear your seatbelt. Place the shoulder belt across the middle of your chest and away from your neck. Place the lap belt across your hips.
Make sure there are at least 10 inches between you and the steering wheel.
Center your ears in the middle of the headrest for the best protection in a crash.
Adjust the seat to easily press the pedals without stretching.
The best view of the road is three inches above the top of your steering wheel.
Learn to use your vehicle's safety features; we can help.
Plan ahead. Leave early to avoid rushing on the road.
Want to learn more? Visit Safe Alaskans' online library with 12 short videos to improve your safety and comfort while driving. The videos were created for the CarFit program supported by AAA, AARP and AOTA. After viewing, you can complete a voluntary survey and enter a monthly drawing for a $25 gift card. https://safealaskans.org/de-library/.
For more information, contact the Center for Safe Alaskans at 907-929-3939 or info@safealaskans.org.
Katey Redmond is the Senior Program Manager for the Center for Safe Alaskans.
