EAA to offer two-part driver safety course

They’re here. The tourists. Out-of-state plates are rivaling Maine tags for room on the roads. And it always amazes me how people on vacation can be in such a hurry. After all, don’t they visit our fair state to get away from the rat race and to enjoy a slower pace for a while? And yet once they get behind the wheel, it’s as if an imaginary clock has started to tick, signaling the beginning of a new rat race.

Well, not to worry. AARP Driver Safety instructor Sylvia Smith teaches classes on safe and defensive driving to seniors, though clearly everyone should take the course. Navigating difficult traffic situations is but one of the topics she will cover.

She also discusses potential trouble spots for drivers. For example, parking lots where cars may be coming from every direction, how to handle a blind spot and how to protect yourself from car crime.

Other topics of the class include how to handle being confronted by an aggressive driver, backing up, skidding and ways to compensate for physical limitations of the older driver.

“Aging is associated with changes in eyesight including the narrowing of peripheral vision, an inability to see in darkness and sensitivity to glare,” said Smith. “Hearing loss and muscle stiffness, which can prevent sudden movement and lengthen response time, are other common complaints of getting older. Medication interaction can present problems also, sometimes causing adverse actions to occur.”

The class also teaches about space cushions, seatbelt myths, what to do if threatened with a head-on crash and the three-second rule which should be practiced regularly.

“I also always emphasize the importance of defensive driving, reminding seniors to always look both ways before proceeding through a green light,” she said. “One must never trust that other drivers will automatically stop for their red light. And always use the blinker when turning.”

And don’t assume other drivers agree that it’s your turn to proceed through a “four-way stop” intersection. Always use caution. One of the biggest mistakes that older drivers make is not yielding the right of way to other cars, said Smith.

She reminds drivers to use blinkers when turning and changing lanes. Often, other drivers will be courteous and let them “cut in” if the intent is made clear. Of course, sometimes the other driver won’t be so courteous, so be sure you are actually being waved in before you make your move.

One goal of the class is to make seniors aware of these situations, she said. And while this class is open to anyone, it is specifically tailored to the mature driver, addressing changes that occur from the aging process.

There are no written or road tests in the class, just lots of vital information – some refresher and some focusing on new driving hazards.

The class is limited to 25 and there is a $10 fee, which covers the cost of materials, including a user-friendly workbook. Upon completion, class participants will receive a certificate, which will entitle them to a discount on their insurance rates.

EAA is offering the two-part course 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, July 17 and 18, at 450 Essex St., Bangor. If you would like to take the class, call 941-2865. It fills up quickly, so if necessary, we’ll put you on a waiting list for the next one.

“I really want older people to be comfortable behind the wheel and with their driving habits and skills so they can be independent as long as possible,” said Smith.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For more information on EAA, call 941-2865 or toll-free at (800) 432-7812, visit www.eaaa.org or e-mail info@eaaa.org. TTY 992-0150.