The roads, the amount of traffic and the types of cars we drive have all changed dramatically over the years so maybe this is a good time to have a voluntary assessment of your driving?
Courses may vary from area to area, however wherever you live, a driving assessment will give you the opportunity to have a qualified driving instructor go out with you for a short drive, on a familiar route, to offer tips and advice on staying safe and well behind the wheel. Theory sessions are sometimes offered to complement the practical drive. The classroom session is a chance to discuss anything on your mind about your driving. You can ask any questions and make sure that you are up to date with the current laws and requirements of being a safer driver.
Listed below are driving assessment courses across the country - please check to see if there is one in your area.
If there's not one currently listed near you, contact your local council and ask to speak to a Road Safety Officer to see what's available nearby. You can find your local contact at www.roadsafetygb.org.uk/contacts
South Yorkshire Council
Senior Citizens Drive Safe
A ground breaking initiative developed by the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is being offered to help older people to continue driving safely.
The free course, being held at the Lifewise Centre in Rotherham on 10 December, aims to support older drivers by providing them with advice and vital information tailored to meet their needs. Drivers will also be able to take advantage of a practical in-car coaching session to brush up on their driving skills.
Data show that older drivers, aged 60+, are over represented in collisions when compared to the proportion of older drivers on the road. With older drivers more likely to be seriously injured, the course aims to help drivers avoid the pain, suffering and inconvenienceof being involved in such an incident.
The Safer Roads Partnership will be working in conjunction with Safety 1st Driving Academy to deliver an entertaining and informative presentation at the event as well as offering on the road driving sessions. Attendees will also be able to talk to a range of agencies who will be on hand to offer advice on a variety of related topics such as:
- general health and wellbeing;
- eyesight and eye health;
- vehicle maintenance;
- motoring mobility aids;
- alternatives to car travel, with advice on public transport options;
- the role of the emergency services in the event of a road traffic collision.
PC Mick Hedges who has developed the course explains, "Older drivers have amassed a wealth of experience over their driving career. The course aims to bring their knowledge up to date and help them to drive safer for longer, to maintain their mobility and independence. At this time of year we shall also be offering valuable tips on winter driving."
Andy Warburton from Safety 1st Driving Academy said, "We're really excited to be involved with this event and to have an opportunity to help our more senior citizens to continue to be safe and considerate drivers. What's more we are able to offer this free of charge through our work with the Safer Roads Partnership, so it won't cost drivers a penny."
To book a place at the event, which will be held at the Lifewise Centre on Monday 10 December, starting at 10am, call 01709 832 455 or email [email protected]. Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis so book early to avoid disappointment.
View the Drive Safe flyer
Click to view the poster