KELOWNA, BC — The British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA), the B.C. Safety Council and ICBC today announced a joint program to promote safe driving among the province's senior population. The 55 Alive/Mature Driving Program is being offered throughout the province to help the fastest growing segment of the motoring public cope with the physical changes of aging and the demands of today's traffic environment. The program is being officially launched at events September 10 in Kelowna and September 13 in Victoria.
"Nearly a quarter of all licensed drivers in B.C. today are over 55, and as the 'baby boom' generation ages, the percentage of mature drivers on our roads will no doubt grow," says John Râtel, Director, BCAA Government Affairs, and Executive Director, BCAA Traffic Safety Foundation. "We believe, therefore, that skills training geared toward mature drivers is more important than ever - it will help enable mature drivers to retain their mobility and independence while at the same time enhancing road safety."
The eight-hour classroom training sessions are taught by certified BC Safety Council instructors. Among the topics discussed are:
- Vision / Hearing
- Normal Driving Situations
- Hazardous Driving Environment
- Driver Guidance
- Driving Decisions
- The Vehicle
- Alcohol and Medications (The average driver over the age of 75 is taking 3 or more prescription medications.)