GROWING older doesn't necessarily make you a poor driver, but statistics show older motorists and pedestrians are at greater risk of dying than younger road users if they are involved in a crash.
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This will be one of the key messages delivered at a free road safety workshop for Central Coast drivers and pedestrians in Toukley next month.
Drivers’ licences, health and ageing will be among the topics explored at the workshop hosted by Central Coast Council on Tuesday, April 2.
Council's connected communities director Julie Vaughan said ageing and changes in health, eyesight, hearing, movement and reaction times meant older people were more vulnerable as road users.
“We know people aged 75 or over are three times more likely to be killed if they are in a crash than people in their 20s,” Ms Vaughan said.
“However, growing older does not necessarily make you a poor driver. Most older drivers have years of experience and our presentation informs them about road safety issues relevant to their stage of life.”
Mayor Jane Smith said the Central Coast was home to many retirees and seniors, and it was important they have the opportunity to continue to live active lives.
“Almost 10 percent of the Coast’s population is over the age of 70,” Cr Smith said.
“Older residents contribute much to our community and we want to help them to stay involved and active for as long as possible.”
Workshop topics will include:
- health and driving;
- tips for safer driving;
- driver licensing at 75 and 85 years;
- pedestrian safety; and
- retiring from driving.
The workshop will be at the Club Toukley (Toukley RSL Club), 35 Holmes Avenue, Toukley. Morning tea will be provided from 9.30am, with the presentation to begin at 10am.
Bookings are essential as spaces are limited. Phone 4350 5387.
