Law Enforcement Resources
Older adults want to drive safely and are not opposed to fair and unbiased evaluations. The majority of older drivers are not problem drivers; they are merely people who need basic transportation. Older adults trust police officers, and officers can help an aging driver steer clear of harm’s way on the road by:
- Providing a referral to a local assistance agency that coaches and counsels older citizens on safe vehicle operation, or makes recommendations for other mobility options;
- Encouraging self-assessment;
- Offering driver refresher courses;
- Citing drivers who violate traffic laws; and
- Making referrals to the licensing agency.
Interventions with the family, partner, or friends:
- Acting as a trusted authority in evaluating driving safety;
- Supporting legal efforts to appropriately restrict or remove driving privileges; and
- Seeking information and assistance on the health and mobility situation of the older driver from loved ones.
Interventions with other community agencies:
- Offering the assistance of the law enforcement community in conducting safety programs.
Helping the Aging Driver
There are some resources available on the national level to provide information on ways that law enforcement can assist aging drivers:
The NHTSA publication, "Cues For Law Enforcement"
The AMA Guide to Assessing and Counseling Older Drivers.
Read more information on how aging affects driving ability on our Driving Skills page.
Education and Training
NHTSA has developed a training course for law enforcement officers that includes information on the aging process, how to conduct a traffic stop with an older driver, making referrals, and conducting an older driver community relations problem. The training can be scheduled by contacting the NHTSA's regional office.
Other NHTSA resources on older driver safety issues are available.
