February is Senior Independence Month, a time to recognize the importance of safety, mobility, and independence for older adults across Maryland. For many seniors, driving plays a critical role in maintaining daily routines, from attending medical appointments and running errands to staying connected with family, friends, and community activities.
At Maryland Auto Insurance, we understand that safe and reliable transportation helps individuals remain active and independent.
Driving and Independence Go Hand in Hand
Maintaining the ability to drive allows many older adults to continue living independently and participating fully in their communities. While experience behind the wheel is a valuable asset, aging can bring changes that affect driving comfort, including vision differences, slower reaction times, or medication side effects.
Recognizing these changes early and making thoughtful adjustments can help seniors remain safe drivers for years to come.
Helpful Tips for Staying Safe Behind the Wheel
Schedule Regular Health and Vision Checkups
Routine medical and vision exams can help identify concerns that may impact driving ability. Speaking with healthcare providers about medications and side effects can also help drivers make informed decisions.
Adjust Driving Habits When Needed
Many seniors find that small changes improve comfort and safety, such as:
- Driving during daylight hours.
- Avoiding heavy traffic or severe weather.
- Planning familiar routes in advance.
These adjustments can reduce stress while maintaining independence.
Keep Vehicles Properly Maintained
Regular vehicle maintenance, including brake inspections, tire checks, and properly functioning headlights, helps ensure vehicles operate safely. Newer safety technologies such as backup cameras and blind-spot alerts may also provide added confidence.
Consider a Driver Refresher Course
Programs such as the AARP Smart Driver Course help older adults stay updated on traffic laws and defensive driving strategies.
Completing an approved course may also qualify Maryland drivers age 55 and older for insurance discounts!
Selecting the Appropriate Auto Insurance Coverage
Auto insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind. For seniors managing retirement or fixed incomes, having appropriate coverage can help reduce unexpected financial stress following an accident.
Maryland minimum levels of insurance include liability, uninsured motorist, and personal injury protection (PIP). For additional protection, you may consider higher limits for these required types of insurance, as well as optional coverages such as comprehensive and collision. For more information about these insurance options, click here.
Maryland Auto Insurance was created by the state of Maryland to make sure all Maryland drivers have access to auto insurance. Maryland Auto Insurance helps eligible drivers who have been turned down or canceled by other carriers get the coverage they need and stay protected.
Maryland Resources Supporting Older Drivers
Several statewide programs offer free tools and education to help seniors continue driving safely.
The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration offers safety education and community outreach programs specifically for aging drivers, including initiatives such as CarFit, which helps drivers adjust their vehicles for better visibility and comfort, and the MyCarDoesWhat campaign, which explains how modern vehicle safety technologies work. In addition, resources like Maryland Access Point connect residents with transportation and caregiving support, while the State Health Insurance Assistance Program provides free counseling and guidance for Medicare-eligible individuals.
Older drivers and families can also explore resources through Zero Deaths Maryland, which offers safety guidance, mobility planning tools, and information about adapting driving habits as needs change.
Insurance education and consumer protection information are available through the Maryland Insurance Administration, including guides that help older adults better understand coverage options and avoid insurance fraud.
Additional Support for Seniors and Caregivers
Transportation needs may change over time, and planning ahead can help families maintain independence while prioritizing safety.
Helpful organizations include:
- The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, offering mobility planning tools and community transportation guidance.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides a checklist and resources for elderly drivers.
Independence Through Preparation
Senior Independence Month is an opportunity to recognize that independence evolves over time. Safe driving habits, access to reliable transportation, and appropriate insurance coverage allow older adults to remain engaged in their communities with confidence.
By taking advantage of available resources and planning ahead, Maryland’s senior drivers can continue enjoying the freedom of the road while helping keep themselves, and others, safe.
