Seniors drive far more compliantly and defensively than other age groups – and the majority of people over 65 are fit at the wheel. However, some causes of accidents increase with age, such as falling off the road, violation of right of way or health problems. We list some of the typical mistakes that tend to pile up with age.
1. Overconfidence
The ability to drive gradually declines, and the mandatory examinations from the age of 75 are no substitute for self-criticism. If you are honked at or overtaken often, you should ask yourself and someone you trust: Am I still fit? Tip: One hour of driving instructors or refresher courses for seniors (e.g. TCS) keep your driving skills fresher. In case of doubt, however, also go to the doctor on this side of 75. Please only drive when you feel fit – and be careful if you are exposed to medication.
2. Ignore blind spots
With age we become more awkward, turning our heads more difficult. The result: Instead of turning it too much, you gently turn it too little – and overlook the bike when turning right or the car in the blind spot when changing lanes. It doesn’t help, turning your head is a must. Tip: A newer car can help with the Blind Spot Assist. Lane assistance and anti-collision assistance, which sometimes even intervenes when parking, are also helpful.
3. Be too brave
One of the most important limitations in old age is eyesight. At intersections you tend to overlook others or underestimate their speed. From the age of 50 it can be much more strenuous to cross a city in the rain at night. Anyone who feels unsafe in such situations should avoid them. The same also applies to rush hour traffic, unknown routes or journeys on the full motorway: Anyone who feels stress or fear of speed here should be on the road in off-peak times or rather off the main traffic axes.
4. Missing rule changes
The basic knowledge of an 85-year-old is based on the 1950s – and not all older drivers stay up-to-date. Just three examples: At that time there were practically no roundabouts, and by 2021 two important innovations were introduced with the right to pass and the zipper requirement. Our tip: Even if you are not interested in cars, follow the news in this regard (for example, check the mobile service section of the Blick for innovations).
5. Drive too slowly
Sensory performance diminishes with age: not only, but especially older people tend to drive slowly. That’s okay – but then please be considerate and make space. Because if you drive slowly over the long term, you are legally obliged to let by (too rough crawling can even be fined). Tip: Don’t accelerate again on the next straight, but flash to the right and drive on the edge or stop at a suitable place.
6. Not enough flashing
In general, there is less and less blinking (here all blinking rules). Seniors at the wheel often have to do with slower reaction to situations and poor coordination (e.g., while driving, turn the flashing lever in the roundabout). Tip: It is better to blink much too early than too late and instead of too seldom better once too often – so that others know what you are doing.
7. Drive up too close
In tricky situations, of all things, insecure drivers tend to “hang on” to the vehicle in front. A kind of “fog effect”: Even in fog, we often unconsciously drive up too close due to uncertainty. But the response slows down with age. So like the majority of older drivers, please keep a lot of distance and at least the two-second rule. And to everyone who gets annoyed by defensive driving: practice tolerance. We are all getting older – every day.