South Australia Police (SAPOL) figures show that older drivers are overrepresented in serious traffic incidents on our state’s roads.

Despite making up only 13% of the driving population, people over 70 account for almost a quarter of road fatalities in South Australia. Another 13% suffer life-threatening injuries due to road crashes.

To combat these alarming statistics, SAPOL has launched a road safety program aimed at educating senior drivers on how to recognise signs of increased vulnerability and reducing the risk of road trauma.

RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain says modifying behaviour can help elderly drivers maintain their independence.

“The campaign empowers older drivers to make decisions that support their own safety,” Mr Mountain says.

“Whether driving in metropolitan or regional areas, drivers need to be confident that they’re adopting the safest possible behaviours.”

“RAA believes motorists should continue to drive as long as it’s safe to do.”

RAA runs a driving masterclass program to help senior drivers maintain their mobility and stay safe on our roads.

The initiative is currently delivered free to retirement villages to provide recommendations and assistance to residents.

The one-on-one sessions show senior drivers how to set up the vehicle to maximise safety and comfort and address topics such as safe vehicles, fitness to drive and mobility aids.

They also provide a 30 minute refresher driving lesson.

The Senior Drivers road safety campaign was developed in consultation with the Council on the Aging (COTA) – the state’s peak body representing the elderly – and addresses scenarios that can heighten stress levels in older drivers.

This includes driving at night, in bad weather or busy traffic.

SAPOL Assistant Commissioner Ian Parrott, Officer in Charge State Operations Service says that despite older drivers being more cautious and exhibiting less undesirable driving behaviour, the collisions they’re involved in often have more serious consequences.

“We want to empower older drivers and their families to talk about reducing the risks of driving if it’s becoming more stressful, more scary and therefore, less safe,’’ AC Parrott says.

“We have developed this campaign with the utmost respect for older South Australians and with the understanding that independence is an important part of an older person’s lifestyle.”

Doctors play a key role in educating older drivers with local GPs crucial in getting life-saving messages out to motorists in the high-risk age bracket. Listening and recognising warning signs and modifying behaviour might just save the life of someone you love.