A safety guide for older road users

There is convincing evidence to show the effects of ageing cause deterioration in the skills necessary for us to continue as safe road users.

Pedestrians

• Pedestrians age 60-69 are twice as likely to be killed on the roads as other adults on foot are
• Pedestrians age 70-79 are 3 times as likely to be killed
• Pedestrians age 80 + males are 4 times as likely to be killed
• Pedestrian's age 80+ females are 11 times as likely to be killed
• Almost 95% of all older pedestrian casualties are on built-up roads where houses and shops are located.
• Whilst most remain active and independent in later years, older pedestrians are not aware of their limitations or what they can do to remedy these problems.

What can older road users do

Try putting into practice the 7 basic principles of defensive walking:

• Avoid rush hours and avoid going out when it is dark or in bad weather
• Choose the safest time possible for your journey
• Plan the journey and cut down the number of times you have to cross the road
• Wear bright clothing so that you can easily be seen
• For the safest place to cross, and preferably use a protected crossing, Pelican, Zebra, footbridge or subway
• Cross where you have a good view of traffic. Cross with a group of people if you can
• Carefully check the speed of approaching vehicles. If in doubt do not cross
• Even if the speed limit is 30mph, cars may be going much faster
• Check for vehicles which may turn unexpectedly towards yo
• Will a stationary car move off? Is it a one way street? Are any cars signalling or slowing down to turn in front of you?
• Check that the driver is doing what you expect them to do
• Is the car stopping at a pedestrian crossing? Will a signalling car turn?
• Check that the driver has seen you
• Do parked cars make it hard for you to be seen? Try making eye contact with the driver. At night cross near a streetlight
• Due to the ageing process, driving abilities deteriorate from around the mid fifties onwards
• Poor eyesight can cause the older road user to be involved in accidents. Road users need to see as well as be seen