One of the most difficult conversations you may ever have to have with an elderly loved one is about whether or not they should continue driving. It can be a sensitive topic, but if you are noticing any of the following signs, it may be time to have that conversation. Doing so can prevent can protect them and others on the road from a car accident.
They Are Having Trouble Following Traffic Signals
One of the signs an elderly loved one is having trouble behind the wheel is that they are having trouble following traffic signals. For example, they may fail to stop at a stop sign or red light or have trouble turning when the light turns green. They may also have difficulty merging onto a highway or making lane changes.
If you notice that your elderly loved one is having trouble obeying traffic signals, it's important to have a conversation with them about their driving safety. You may also want to consult with their doctor to see if any underlying health conditions could be affecting their ability to drive.
They Are Sipping More Often
Another potential sign that an elderly loved one is having trouble behind the wheel is if they are seen sipping more often. This could be a sign that the driver is struggling to stay hydrated or that they are feeling lightheaded. It might also indicate that the driver is taking medication that could cause drowsiness.
They Are Getting Closer to the Steering Wheel
Does your elderly loved one seem to be getting closer to the steering wheel when driving? This may be a sign that their vision is starting to fail. As we age, it becomes more difficult to see things that are far away. This can make it hard to judge distances, which can be dangerous when driving.
They Are Getting Lost in Familiar Places
As we age, it can become more difficult to process and remember information. This can make it hard to plan and follow a route, even one we have driven. If you have elderly parents or relatives who are still driving, pay close attention to whether they are getting lost in familiar places. This is one of the early signs that they may no longer be safe behind the wheel.
If you're noticing any of these red flags, it may be time to discuss your concerns. It may be a difficult conversation, but it could end up saving their life—and the lives of others on the road.
Were you involved in a car accident caused by another party? The St. Louis car accident attorneys at The Hoffman Law Firm can help ensure your legal rights are protected. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.
They Are Having Trouble Following Traffic Signals
One of the signs an elderly loved one is having trouble behind the wheel is that they are having trouble following traffic signals. For example, they may fail to stop at a stop sign or red light or have trouble turning when the light turns green. They may also have difficulty merging onto a highway or making lane changes.
If you notice that your elderly loved one is having trouble obeying traffic signals, it's important to have a conversation with them about their driving safety. You may also want to consult with their doctor to see if any underlying health conditions could be affecting their ability to drive.
They Are Sipping More Often
Another potential sign that an elderly loved one is having trouble behind the wheel is if they are seen sipping more often. This could be a sign that the driver is struggling to stay hydrated or that they are feeling lightheaded. It might also indicate that the driver is taking medication that could cause drowsiness.
They Are Getting Closer to the Steering Wheel
Does your elderly loved one seem to be getting closer to the steering wheel when driving? This may be a sign that their vision is starting to fail. As we age, it becomes more difficult to see things that are far away. This can make it hard to judge distances, which can be dangerous when driving.
They Are Getting Lost in Familiar Places
As we age, it can become more difficult to process and remember information. This can make it hard to plan and follow a route, even one we have driven. If you have elderly parents or relatives who are still driving, pay close attention to whether they are getting lost in familiar places. This is one of the early signs that they may no longer be safe behind the wheel.
If you're noticing any of these red flags, it may be time to discuss your concerns. It may be a difficult conversation, but it could end up saving their life—and the lives of others on the road.
Were you involved in a car accident caused by another party? The St. Louis car accident attorneys at The Hoffman Law Firm can help ensure your legal rights are protected. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 for a free case evaluation.