Older people

Older pedestrians

Pensioners in the West of Scotland are being advised to take more care when crossing the road as every second day a pensioner is killed or injured as a pedestrian - these are the findings which have resulted in a major campaign launched on 29 October by the West of Scotland Road Safety Forum (WoSRSF), in conjunction with 1152 Clyde 2 and Westsound, to help highlight the risks to the 60+ age group and to combat the problem.

Most road related incidents involving 60+ pedestrians happen in built-up areas and during daylight hours. Statistics show that they are unlikely to be injured while using pedestrian crossings*. They are also more likely to be seriously injured or killed even when they are hit at low speeds, due to their physical vulnerability.

The campaign features a TV advert focusing on the story of two women who used to spend time together shopping and socialising, but which came to an abrupt end after one had a serious road accident. There will also be a high profile radio campaign on 1152 Clyde 2 and Westsound, posters, leaflets and advertising in bus interiors.

60+ pedestrians should follow the following advice to keep safe on the roads:
· Plan your day - avoid busy traffic times.
· Cross where you can see clearly.
· Use pedestrian crossing places if you can.
· Be careful crossing between parked cars.
· Make sure drivers can see you - wear something bright.

*These findings came from analysis of road deaths in Glasgow involving 60+ pedestrians during a recent three year period.

Click on the links below to listen to the radio and television adverts:

Stepping out safely ad 1

Television commercial

For a chance to win £25 M&S vouchers click here to complete a short questionnaire.

Click here for the latest 60+ news release

Older drivers

The risk of older drivers being involved in a fatal crash is as high as that for young, inexperienced drivers. Older drivers are more likely to have crashes associated with negotiating junctions.

In general, older drivers find it more difficult to judge the speed and intentions of other drivers. From the age of around 45 most of us need glasses to see well either at a distance, close up or for both. For example, by around the age of 60 our eyes will normally require three times more light to see as well as when we were aged 20.

It is also important for older drivers to recognise that many traffic changes have occurred during their lifetime - and that today there is increasingly heavy traffic and congestion on the roads.

Older drivers are advised to take extra care at night or in bad weather – and preferably to try and avoid driving at these times if possible.

Planning ahead will help to reduce stress levels – and planning the route in advance will help the driver cope better with the journey ahead. In addition, retired people are usually able to travel outside the peak hours – and this is a good idea.

Travelling is tiring and this can lead to accidents. Older drivers should pamper themselves by taking frequent breaks during their journey.

Drivers should check with their doctor or chemist about the effects of any prescribed or purchased medicines as they can affect driving.