Seniors tend to get a bad rap for their driving, perhaps unfairly. But just like everyone else, seniors drive because they have places to go, people to see, and errands to run.
There’s not always a need to get them off the road, like some might suggest. Instead, some just need to have a little better training.
This month, seniors in Clark County will have the opportunity to do just that. On Fri., Jan. 27, an AAA Driver Improvement Program will be held at the Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, located at 12513 E Mill Plain Blvd. in Vancouver. By taking the course, seniors will be given practical guidance for traffic accident prevention. The goal is to enhance driver safety and confidence.
Upon successful completion of the course, seniors (over 55 years of age) will qualify for automobile insurance premium discounts. Mary Lilleness from AAA says the actual savings will vary widely between insurance companies, but some discount is assured after the course completion.
“We encourage folks to find out ahead of time,” says Lilleness, on how much senior drivers can benefit financially for attending.
A nice discount though, isn’t the only reason taking the AAA Driver Improvement Program would be a good idea.
“It's all about being a better driver,” says Lilleness.
Within the course itself, several concepts are to be addressed. In the AAA course curriculum overview the following are listed as key learning points:
• Seeing: How to use eyes to effectively gather information while driving.
• Communication: Help drivers understand what the environment, traffic situations, and other drivers are telling them.
• Adjusting speed: Assist drivers in making decisions regarding the speed of their vehicle.
• Driving emergencies: Discuss problems that cause emergencies and the appropriate solutions.
• Your car: The importance of keeping a vehicle in good operating condition.
• You, the driver: Provide drivers with information that enables them to make responsible decisions about drinking and driving, emotions, preventing road rage, fatigue and drowsy driving, distractions, aging, and effects of medications.
The course is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 27. The cost is $18 per person. Instructor Lilleness has been a professional driving instructor in the state of Washington since 1977. The class includes lectures and AAA driving films. There will also be some time set aside for questions and answers. Attendees will not be asked to do any actual driving.
The AAA Driver Improvement Program is mainly only offered in the Seattle/Tacoma area. Besides this month, there will be just one other time all year the opportunity will be available in Southwest Washington.
