Safety & Car Insurance Tips for Seniors

The American population is aging rapidly, and as a result, we will have an increasing number of seniors out on the road in coming years. Here are safety and car insurance tips for senior drivers.

• Take advantage of senior-driver discounts. Some auto insurers will provide discounted premiums to senior drivers, usually beginning at age 55 or 60. Your insurer won't automatically apply this discount to your policy, so make sure you contact your agent when you are eligible.
• If you limit your driving, ask about a low-mileage policy. Seniors tend to limit the extent of their driving as they age, but they hold onto their vehicle for short trips to the store, the doctor, etc. If you don't drive that often, you may qualify for a low-mileage discount with your insurer.
• Purchase the right car. One of the car insurance tips seniors are usually pretty good about heeding is upgrading their vehicles to accommodate their changing needs. For example, seniors with back problems will be more comfortable in supportive car seats that adjust and respond to the driver's unique shape. Similarly, a senior driver might trade in a high-profile vehicle for a more modestly sized car in order to maximize accessibility.
• Know your limits. If you have trouble seeing at night, then you obviously should avoid driving in the dark. Keeping your driving record clean is the best driving tip you'll ever receive, so avoid risky driving situations for which you know you are ill-equipped.
• Have your vision tested regularly. Some states mandate regular vision testing for seniors in order to qualify for license renewal. However, even if your state does not require it, you should still have your vision tested regularly. If you suffer from glaucoma or cataracts, you should not drive unless you have the express permission of your physician to do so.
• Take a mature driver safety course. Your car insurer may not provide you with the senior-driver discount unless you take a mature-driver safety class. This class is similar to a defensive driving or driver's education class but focuses mainly on the driving issues that seniors face.