There are many natural age-related changes one faces that can affect driving like vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion, and height. Automotive advancements have been developed to help compensate for these changes and support your safe driving.
The risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash increases as we age. Being properly fitted in your vehicle, along with safe driving habits, can help you avoid crashes altogether.
Vehicle Safety Features
Common Existing Safety Features
Today’s vehicles are designed with safety in mind, which is why the following features are included in modern vehicles:
- Safety belts – During a crash, safety belts help keep you secure in your vehicle. Proper use of safety belts is the most effective strategy to protect vehicle occupants from crash related injuries.
- Airbags - Driver and passenger airbags protect front seat occupants in the event of a front-end collision. Side or “curtain” airbags offer protection in side impact collisions.
- Head Restraints - Head restraints help prevent your head from being snapped in a rear-end collision.
- Anti-lock brakes help improve steering control during sudden stops.
- Mirrors allow you to have a good view of the front, side, and rear of your vehicle so you can make safer lane changes. Outside mirrors should help eliminate “blind spots”.
Hundreds of millions of vehicles on the roads have safety technologies – new and old – that help prevent crashes. You can learn more about these new technologies on our In-Vehicle Technology page.
Buying a Safe Vehicle
When shopping for a new vehicle, it is important to take into consideration safety features. The following resources can help you make this decision:
- The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety website has information to help you learn about your vehicle’s safety ratings.
- AARP’s Car Buying webpage, provides advice on new and used vehicles where you can learn safety features and pricing.
- AAA's Evolving Vehicle Technology webpage provides an auto dealer worksheet and more information on advanced driver assistance technology.
Automated and Connected Vehicles
The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is collaborating with state universities to gain a better understanding of any implications associated with planning for and integrating autonomous and connected technologies into Florida's existing infrastructure. Read the research report Enhanced Mobility for Aging Population Using Automated Vehicles and visit the Florida Connected Vehicle Initiative webpage for the latest project information.
