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| Web Site for Seniors |
A new AAA Web site – AAA Seniors.com – will help seniors keep driving for as long as safely possible and mobile thereafter.
As the baby-boomer generation ages, people over 65 are the fastest-growing population in the United States. Since today’s older Americans are healthier and more active than ever, the connection between driving ability and independence is front and center in the minds of families across the country. |
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 BACK TO HORIZONS MAIN PAGE
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 A new AAA Web site – AAA Seniors.com – will help seniors keep driving for as long as safely possible and mobile thereafter.
As the baby-boomer generation ages, people over 65 are the fastest-growing population in the United States. Since today’s older Americans are healthier and more active than ever, the connection between driving ability and independence is front and center in the minds of families across the country.
AAASeniors.com will help families and the senior drivers in their lives create a plan of action. The decision about whether a senior should continue to drive will often involve many people. The earlier families discuss the inevitable consequences of aging, the better they and their loved ones can agree to a plan of action.
By learning how aging affects driving, they’ll become better prepared to help a senior driver when the time is right. 
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 Massachusetts has more than 1,500 miles of coastline, 30 major river systems and 25 federally endangered and threatened species. It’s a lot to safeguard, and motorists can do their part by selecting a “Preserve the Trust” specialty license plate to benefit the environment. The plates feature eye-catching designs representing the coasts, lakes and rivers and working waterfronts of Massachusetts.
Motorists can choose from three themes: Right Whale & Roseate Terns, which features two endangered animals that depend upon healthy ecosystems for survival; Leaping Brook Trout, which represents the popular game fish native to the state’s western streams; and Blackstone Valley Mill, which highlights the need to restore urban rivers and streams to enhance their ecology and improve the health of riverfront communities.
Proceeds have paid for more than $17 million in environmental-protection and education projects throughout the state. From Provincetown to Pittsfield, about $1 million in grants is awarded annually to a diverse array of environmental efforts.
It is easy and affordable to support environmental projects across the state. Just buy one of the plates, and renew every two years. A portion of your fee is tax-deductible.
The first-time cost of an environmental specialty plate is $76, which includes the initial registration fee of $36 and the special plate fee of $40. Of that, $28 is tax-deductible.
The renewal fee of $81 is paid every two years. Of that, $40 is tax-deductible.
For information, visit www.MassEnvironmentalTrust.org. To buy a plate, visit the Registry of Motor Vehicles or go to www.mass.gov/rmv and select “Order Special Plates.”
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Check List for Used-Car Buyers
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Always take a road test before buying a used car.
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In the market for a used car? AAA offers these steps to take the gamble out of used vehicle buying:
• Decide what kind of vehicle you need. Ask yourself several questions to evaluate all aspects of your lifestyle, such as: How large is your family now and might it be in the near future? How long is your commute? Will you need to tow a boat? Do you want a more environmentally friendly vehicle?
• Talk to owners of similar vehicles. Most owners will share their experiences. Ask about maintenance, major and minor problems and gas mileage. Many online forums are dedicated to specific makes and models and can be a good resource.
• Determine what you can afford and secure financing in advance. Do not wait until you’re at a dealer to think about financing. The financing available through the dealer might not be the best rate. Research financing options in advance.
• Get an estimate of current pricing. Check the used vehicle ads in the classified section of your newspaper, used vehicle advertising specialty publications and online services, such as AAA.com. These ads will give you some idea of current retail prices. New vehicle dealerships are another good place to compare prices on used vehicles, but remember dealer prices are usually higher than those in classified ads.
• Determine if you want to purchase a vehicle from a private owner or a dealer. While you might be able to negotiate a lower price from a private owner, the vehicle usually does not come with a guarantee that many dealers offer. If you’re buying the vehicle from a dealer, read the contract carefully. If problems need to be corrected, make sure the dealer takes care of them before you drive away. Read everything before you sign, ask questions, and keep a copy of the contract.
In a private sale, check that the seller is, in fact, the registered owner of the vehicle. Make sure you get the vehicle’s title and a bill of sale. Remember, most private-party sales are “as is.” Occasionally, you may be able to buy a vehicle from someone within your family or a friend. This can result in a good buy, but it can be a later source of friction if the vehicle turns out to have problems.
• Get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. History reports can reveal if the vehicle has hidden problems like involvement in an accident, flood or fire damage or odometer fraud. Some dealerships will provide a history report. AAA members can buy CARFAX reports at AAA.com/auto.
• Always take a road test. Make sure the test is more than just a drive around the block. Check how the vehicle handles at highway speeds and in stop-and-go traffic.
• Have a mechanic check it out. You likely will have to pay a fee to have the car inspected but it’s worth it to catch looming mechanical problems. Look for a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility in your area. Those shops have been inspected to ensure they meet AAA’s standards for quality, training and customer service. You can find a shop near you at AAA.com/repair.
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AAA's Top Picks for New Vehcile Features
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| New vehicle safety features include blind-spot warning systems. |
Every model year, automakers find more ways to introduce new technologies in their vehicles. Whether for safety, convenience or simply the “wow” factor, high-tech features are prevalent on nearly every new model.
Here’s a look at some of the top new features to check out:
MyKey — Introduced by Ford, MyKey employs a computer chip in the vehicle’s ignition key to limit teen drivers to a top speed of 80 mph. Parents can also program the teen’s key to limit audio system levels and sound a continuous alert if the driver doesn’t wear a seatbelt. Another MyKey option is the ability to sound a chime if the teen driver exceeds 45, 55 or 65 mph. While this technology does not replace the need for parental involvement with teen drivers, MyKey can be a helpful tool when used in conjunction with AAA’s driver training and parent-teen driving agreement.
MyKey will be introduced as a standard feature in the 2010 Ford Focus, Escape hybrid, and selected other vehicles before spreading to the entire Ford, Lincoln and Mercury lineup as models are updated.
Lane Departure Warning Systems — Though not new for 2009, the increased availability of lane departure warning systems is an important safety feature that earns this technology a spot on the list. These systems monitor a vehicle’s path of travel, typically through tracking of lane markings, and sound an audible and/or tactile (through the steering wheel) alert when the vehicle drifts outside its lane. Some systems are able to provide corrective steering input in addition to sounding an alarm.
First introduced in North America by Infiniti, lane departure warning systems also are now available on selected new models from Cadillac, Lexus, BMW, Buick, Volvo, Audi and Mercedes Benz.
Blind Spot Warning Systems — A few of today’s new cars offer blind spot warning systems as an added safety feature. These systems monitor the areas at the rear sides of the vehicle that are often invisible in the mirrors. The systems provide a visual indication, usually on the applicable side mirror, when an obstacle is present in the monitored area. Mercedes Benz, Mazda, Volvo, Buick, Cadillac and Lincoln are among the manufacturers offering blind spot warning systems.
Driver Alertness Monitors — The dangers of drowsy driving are frequently overlooked by motorists, which earns driver alertness monitors a spot on AAA’s top-tech list. Mercedes Benz will introduce the Attention Assist feature on select 2010 models to combat the threat of drivers falling asleep while at the wheel. Attention Assist monitors the driver’s steering and throttle inputs, and when they vary too far from normal patterns a loud voice announces, “Attention Assist! Brake!” to alert the sleepy driver. Volvo began offering similar system called Driver Alert in 2008 and has it available on several upcoming models.
Though a great new technology, driver alertness monitors do not replace the need for a good night’s sleep and knowing when it is time to stop and rest when traveling. Motorists should not view these monitors as an excuse to test their endurance behind the wheel.
Collision Preparation Systems — These systems are programmed to recognize situations that indicate an accident may be imminent, such as when the closing rate with the vehicle ahead exceeds a certain limit, the vehicle begins to skid or the driver initiates hard braking. Once triggered, collision preparation systems take steps to reduce the possibility of a collision while providing maximum protection for the vehicle occupants. Depending on the model, a collision preparation system may: tighten the seat belts, close open windows and sunroofs, lock the doors and apply the brakes. Acura, Lexus, Toyota, Volvo and Mercedes Benz are among the manufacturers that offer collision preparation systems.
Automatic Air Recirculation with Smog Sensor — Some Lexus models offer a unique feature on their climate control systems that automatically switches the ventilation system to recirculate when high levels of outside pollutants are detected in the cabin. The system reverts back to fresh-air intake once detectable levels of pollutants have been reduced.
The system’s ability to detect dust, pollen, smoke and carbon dioxide make it a helpful feature in both urban and rural environments.
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Check List for a Smooth Ride
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Don’t let an emergency put the brakes on a great vacation. Here are ways you can plan ahead and prepare properly for your road trip.
Car Maintenance
1. Consider having your car checked by an automotive technician before a long trip. An ounce of prevention can be worth a pound of cure.
2. Check the tires regularly for uneven or excessive tread wear. Make sure all items, including the spare, are inflated properly. Do at least one check BEFORE hitting the road, as tires hot from driving give inaccurate inflation readings.
3. Check the coolant level and condition, making certain the proper 50/50 mixture of water and coolant is present.
4. Check the level and condition of the engine oil. If driving under extreme conditions – such as very hot summer weather or pulling a heavy trailer – you may want to consider switching to oil with higher viscosity. Check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
5. Look for worn, cracked, blistered or soft belts or hoses. Always perform this check with the engine off.
6. Hot weather can shorten the life of a car’s battery – if there’s concern, have it tested by a qualified automotive technician
Travel Planning
1. Carry an emergency kit with a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices such as flares or reflective triangles, jumper cables, a first-aid kit and extra water.
2. Don’t let the gas level get below one-quarter of a tank.
3. Select your route on a map ahead of time and study it to know exactly where you’re going.
4. Reserve all accommodations in advance.
5. Lock your car when you leave it and keep valuables out of sight.
6. Secure children and adults in safety seats, booster seats or seat belts, as required by law.
7. Bring books, games or music for the ride, and a pillow so passengers can sleep.
8. Bring information on your destination to make the most of your trip.
For more planning tools, visit AAA.com/travel.
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What do a cynical cat, a spunky red-haired girl and a spooky story have in common with AAA and child-passenger safety?
They’re the focus of three soon-to-be-released children’s DVDs by Twentieth Century FOX Home Entertainment featuring a AAA child-passenger-safety public-service announcement.
Garfield, Strawberry Shortcake and Goosebumps are partnering with AAA to promote traveling safely in the car with children.
Child-passenger safety is one of AAA’s key initiatives.
In addition to the public-service announcement, which focuses on key steps in using the appropriate safety seat for your child and installing it correctly, the DVDs will include a two-sided insert outlining child-passenger-safety tips and AAA member benefits.
The first DVD, “Garfield’s Pet Force,” is set for release June 16, followed by “The Strawberry Shortcake Movie: Sky’s The Limit,” Sept. 22, and a Goosebumps title (still to be determined), also in September.
AAA members can take advantage of a $2-off discount coupon to purchase the DVDs.
Discount coupons for “Garfield’s Pet Force” will be available at AAA offices in early June. Coupons for the other two DVDs will be available about two weeks prior to their release.
The DVDs will be sold in major retail and online outlets, including Target, Wal-Mart, Toys “R” Us, Best Buy and Amazon.com.
For fun safety activities, visit AAA.com/safeseats4kids.
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AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety: Licensed for Safety
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J. Peter Kissinger
President and CEO |
For traffic-safety professionals, a James Bond movie can be a gut-wrenching experience. Sure, saving the world, leading the glamorous life and visiting exotic locales are great, but the safety issues are enough to leave a person shaken and stirred. Bond never wears a seatbelt, drinks and drives, crashes at least one car per film and puts hundreds of othes at risk. Even worse, he’s “licensed to kill.”
Unfortunately, 007 isn’t the only one whose licensing makes him a risk — and that concerns traffic-safety professionals, too. Drivers have different needs and capabilities, and good licensing programs should reflect these issues.
Take teen drivers. Statistically, teens are the most dangerous drivers on the road, crashing more often than any other group. A recent AAA Foundation study shows these incidents tend to be deadly for passengers and other road users — in fatal crashes involving teen drivers, 63 percent of the time someone other than the teen driver died.
Several things make teens risky drivers. With little experience behind the wheel, they often lack the judgment to assess risks on the fly and react accordingly. Issues that challenge all drivers, including distractions from passengers and night conditions, create huge risks for new drivers.
By addressing these issues through graduated-driver licenses, states can mitigate the risks. Over the last 12 years, every state has instituted some form of graduated licensing. In that time, the fatality rate for teen drivers has dropped 35 percent.
But, these approaches have room for improvement. Many states lack passenger limits, night restrictions and mandatory practice hours before letting teens shift to full licenses. Ensuring teens get undistracted, extensive behind-the-wheel experience will improve safety even more.
Teens aren’t the only group that benefits from licensing changes – senior-driver safety also can improve. While most tend to become safer drivers over the years, around age 65, this improvement begins to decline. After age 75, seniors become a particularly high-risk driving group, especially in terms of crashes where they are injured or killed.
Although the AAA Foundation is continuing to study senior safety, existing research points to several reasons for increased risks as people age. Eyesight is a big factor. Seniors need considerably more light to see clearly, so night driving can be hazardous. Aging eyes have more trouble in high-glare situations or adjusting to changes from light to dark, such as going in and out of tunnels and parking garages. Peripheral vision decreases over time, so drivers must compensate by using mirrors differently and keeping their heads moving more as they drive -- unfortunately, this happens when many are losing their flexibility.
Many seniors have trouble identifying risks in their own driving. Since changes often take place over years, they don’t notice their fields of vision shrinking or reaction times slowing. Convincing those who can no longer drive safely can be touchy for families and drivers. Some states have laws that provide ways for concerned relatives, doctors and others to report a driver (of any age) for re-evaluation due to possible functional problems. Last year, the AAA Foundation released a study about a Missouri law on voluntary reporting, which found only 3.5 percent of drivers reported through the program retained their licenses after a screening process that included medical evaluation and on- and off-road testing.
Such programs may provide a basis for “delicensing” those at risk without penalizing healthy seniors, but licensing is just one facet. Combining licensing approaches with transportation initiatives will help keep seniors active and improve safety.
In fact, Bond could be a role model. Based on Ian Fleming’s novels, he’d be about 95, but he’s still working, enjoying the good life and contributing to society. But, if he can’t step up his traffic-safety skills, he’d better trade in that “license to kill” for a nice bus pass.
For more safety tips, visit www.aaafoundation.org.
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Pavement Edge Drop-offs Can Be Deadly for Motorists
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“Driver, 24, ran off the right side of the roadway, and she overcorrected causing the vehicle to run off the left side of the roadway and overturn.”
“Driver, 59, died when the vehicle she was driving ran off the right side of the road and she overcorrected; vehicle returned to the roadway and then slid off the right side of the roadway and overturned.”
“Driver, 30, died when the vehicle he was driving traveled off the roadway; he overcorrected, causing the vehicle to travel off the other side of the road and strike a rock bluff.”
Drivers who veer off the road and into the shoulder often can be caught by surprise when suddenly one or two of their wheels drop off the pavement, and even if the drop-off is only a couple inches, the results can be deadly.
A study sponsored by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that pavement- edge drop-off related crashes are substantially more likely than other crashes on similar roadways to result in serious injuries. They also are more than twice as likely to be fatal. Such drop-offs are hazardous because the significant vertical differences between surfaces can affect vehicle stability and reduce a driver’s ability to handle his or her car.
Characterized by a shoulder that is lower than the edge of the paved road surface, pavement edge drop-off can be caused by pavement breaking, erosion and wear of unpaved shoulders, inadequate maintenance or resurfacing projects that neglect to keep shoulders level with the paved road surface. Although they can occur on any roadway, they are more common on rural two-lane roads with narrow lanes and shoulders.
A driver can accidentally drive off the road or be forced off the road for any number of reasons, and pavement edge drop-offs, especially if they are 2 inches or deeper, can increase the risk of a crash and make it difficult for a driver to return to the road safely, the study found.
A typical pavement-edge drop-off crash occurs when the driver attempts an immediate return to the roadway and tire scrubbing occurs, a condition in which the tire sidewall is forced into the pavement edge, resulting in friction between the tire and pavement. When this happens, some drivers overreact and increase their steering angle, which can cause them to lose control and cross into the oncoming traffic or can result in a rollover.
While crashes related to pavement-edge drop-off are relatively infrequent, the study found they are often severe.
Safety tips when you’re over the edge
To promote safe driving when encountering a pavement-edge drop-off, the AAA Foundation developed “Over the Edge and Back,” a brochure that explains what drivers should do if they drive off the road.
It’s not about returning to the road quickly, it’s about returning to the road safely. Don’t panic or immediately attempt to steer back on the road, especially at high speeds, as this can easily cause you to lose control.
With step-by-step instructions, the brochure advises motorists to steer straight and slow down gradually, not abruptly; braking hard while the tires are on different surfaces can cause the vehicle to skid. If it’s safe, drive all the way onto the shoulder and wait until there is a gap in traffic. Then you can drive back onto the road safely.
For a free copy of the brochure, visit www.AAAFoundation.org or call 1-800-305-SAFE. .
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