When should you stop driving? Lancaster County official says it’s about ability, not age

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — It’s Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, and local officials are asking for your help keeping our roads safe.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said almost 7,500 people 65 and older were killed in traffic collisions in 2021. That was 17% of all traffic deaths nationwide.

But officials said age itself is not an impediment; it is what comes with it.

Chief Deputy Ben Houchin with the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office said driving abilities vary case by case. 

“Decisions about being able to drive should not just be because of your age,” Houchin said. ” It needs to be based on your vision, your physical ability and your reflexes.”

Officials said there are ways your loved ones can still maintain their independence and stay safe on the road.

NHTSA said it starts by talking to them and setting up a plan.

“You want to speak with other family members, friends, folks that are around them and start to gather information about what it is that you’re noticing and then create an action plan and include them in that action plan,” said John Lefler, executive director of the Nebraska Safety Council.

And the decision doesn’t have to be to quit driving; there are some tips older drivers can follow to be safe. 

“Give yourself a little bit more space between vehicles,” Lefler said. “Consider driving only during the daytime and always in a good weather.” 

The Lincoln Police Department also shared some resources available to you on social media.

The NHTSA has videos available to help those behind the wheel with medical conditions like Alzheimer’s or diabetes.