We all worry about our parents on the road as they get older. Especially if they are in high-traffic areas like Dale Mabry, Memorial Highway, Columbus Drive or Habana Avenue here in Tampa, we know that the chances of them having a wreck in one of these areas increases significantly every day just due to the sheer number of people that are moving into Tampa on a monthly basis. I have personally been on the receiving end of post-crash call of a family member and I know the fear and anxiety that sets in when those first words are spoken. Trying to keep a clear head in that situation is difficult, trust me. So its better to arm your parents or other elderly family members with information BEFORE they hit the road.
The most important thing that they need to understand is that they must be constantly vigilant. Remind them to scan intersections and parking lots regularly, especially at major intersections, as intersectional collisions account for a great majority of auto accidents in Florida. The second best piece of advice is to call 911 after a crash even if someone else has said that they are calling so that they can absolutely ensure that police, fire or rescue services are sent to them immediately. The third most important thing for Mom, Dad or your Abuela to know is that they should not get out of their vehicle and wander around on the road unless they absolutely must do so for some reason to protect their safety, such as the car smoking from the engine compartment or a visible fire. Sometimes, elderly drivers are confused after a crash not only due to their age but also due to potential concussion- type issues or other injuries that cause them to get out and walk around in traffic. This is clearly unsafe and could result in further injury or even death. Elderly drivers must know that they have to stay in their vehicles and safe unless there is something highly dangerous in staying in the car. The fourth thing that an elderly driver should do is keep their windows up and not interact with the other driver until the rescue team or police arrive on scene. With all the incidents of road rage in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Polk, Hernando, Citrus and all surrounding areas in Tampa Bay, we must be on guard these days against those people that simply cannot handle their emotions after a car crash.
Of course, you should also be evaluating how safe it is for your elderly parents or family members to continue driving. Take a ride with them to grab coffee or go to the grocery store. Keep an eye on how well they maintain their lane, comply with the speed limit, follow the traffic signals and signage and interact with vehicles around them on the roadway. While giving up driving privileges is certainly a further loss of independence that may lead to some very uncomfortable conversations, it will save you a lot of heartache later on if you can prevent that family member from being on the road if they are a danger to themselves or to others.