Take Your Driving Skills in for a Tune-Up
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-06-08 17:19:43.939942-04:00
Elton Moon didn't really think he needed a refresher course in driver safety.
But then he changed direction.
"A high school buddy told me about the reduction in my car insurance premiums for taking the course, but that wasn't the only reason we attended," said Moon. "I know sometimes as we get older we forget to 'keep our eye on the ball' and we get sloppy in our driving habits."
The AARP Driver Safety Program is the nation's first and largest driver refresher course specially designed for drivers age 50 and older. The program is offered both in person and over the Internet. There are no tests. The class helps drivers refine existing skills and develop safe driving strategies.
The AARP member cost is $10 for the in-person class and $15.95 for the online version. Insurance company discounts vary, and some companies may not offer a discount for those taking the online course. Be sure to check with your insurance carrier for more information.
"Elton used to be a tailgater," said his wife, Ann. "The most helpful part of the course for me was the 'four second rule' for following distance—and it certainly had an influence on Elton."
The Moons took the classroom version of the course at their local senior center. Along with an update on current safe driving practices and laws, the course covers age-related driving issues like vision and hearing changes, the effects of medications, and reaction time changes.
"After taking the course, I feel more confident in all my driving areas," said Moon. "One of the problems (the course) brought to my awareness was 'road rage' and how to deal with it. I've never had a problem in that area but now I feel more confident should I ever be confronted with such a situation."
AARP Driver Safety Program classes are offered in hundreds of locations throughout the state.
Find out more online or call toll-free 1-888-AARP-NOW (1-888-227-7669).
Share
preview