the driver's handbook

1. Do you signal in plenty of time and check
for cars behind and beside you when you
change lanes?
The only acceptable answer is always. Good driving includes
checking the rear view mirrors, signalling and then looking over
your shoulder to cover the blind spots just before changing lanes.
One of the specific unsafe driving habits of many older
drivers is failing to look for other vehicles behind and
beside their vehicle.
When under observation some older drivers report that they are not
aware of having not looked behind and beside their vehicle before
changing lanes or reversing. These drivers have been lucky to not
be involved in a crash.
Suggestions:
• examine your lane changing and reversing behaviour and
resolve to improve if always is not your answer
• if you have arthritis or joint stiffness that makes it difficult to
turn your head, inquire through your doctor and other sources
about medications and exercises that might improve your
flexibility.
If stiffness, arthritic pain or other physical problems keep you from
turning your head and looking to the rear comfortably, you might
consider installing a larger rear-view mirror inside your car to ensure
that you have complete or wider vision through your rear window.
2. Do you stay up-to-date on changes to
the road rules?
The law is always changing and it is dangerous not to stay
up-to-date.
Many drivers do not have an up-to-date knowledge of
new developments in the road rules
Suggestions:
Being dependent on your driving experience alone, rather than
keeping yourself informed on changes to the road rules, could
be costly and result in a crash or injury.
Enrol in a driver refresher course with a local driving school.
Sometimes it is easier to learn by doing rather than just
reading about it. A refresher course allows you an opportunity
to ask questions on driving style and new road rules. Driving
instructors can provide you with independent advice on the
safety of your driving.
The Driver’s Handbook 129