I am going to mention a stereotype that I agree with quite a lot: old people plus driving DO NOT MIX!
How many times has a driver pissed you off and allowed your road rage to shine? Now, how many times have you passed this horrid driver and found an elderly person sitting in the driver’s seat? Plenty I am sure.
I honestly can’t count the number of times it has happened to me.
When in driver’s education class all those years ago, it was taught that defensive driving is the safest method. It is more dangerous having a driver go too slow than too fast in most cases. One such example being when someone is pulling onto a highway causing you to slam on the brakes.
Someone needs to teach the elders this! I have slammed my brakes much more for old people than young.
Now I am not condoning those that like to go 100 mph on Interstate 26.
Going too fast is not OK, either. I just want to make that clear. Go with the flow of traffic! Racing is ridiculous unless it is on the Bristol Motor Speedway (even then I have some doubts).
The subject today is about ripening adults. I don’t hate old people. I just feel that there should be a road test given yearly when they reach a certain age.
Right now, you can just renew your driver’s license online and never even think about going to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This may be convenient but not very safe.
The way I see it, with old age comes medical conditions. You have hearing and sight loss. You are not as responsive as you once were. It is almost like a drunk driver in a sense.
A person thinks they are OK to drive but they really shouldn’t because their reflexes are slower. Others have to watch out for you. It is the same with aged people. It is not fair. I don’t feel it is too much to have at least an eye exam to see if driving is for you.
I know that elderly people need to get to places too. I don’t want to seem selfish by saying that they shouldn’t drive. I am sure there are a ton of older folks that can drive better than me. I just want some action to be taken to keep up with the abilities of seniors. Give a road test; make them take an exam about driving rules and regulations. I am sure at least some rules have changed since their license was first issued.
Unfortunately, in Johnson City, the public transportation system isn’t that great. That is why another method of getting around should be an option for elders. I am sure that some organizations would be happy to give a lift to those that shouldn’t be driving.
Make the highways safer Tennessee!

Author