Older Driver Vehicle Safety
Information Sheet
As you grow older your general fitness, vision, hearing and mobility are not as good as they once were. Additionally, if
you are involved in a crash, you are more susceptible to injury and it can take longer to recover. It is important that you
remain safe on the road by evaluating your ability to drive and adjusting your driving habits and vehicle to compensate
for any changes in your health and fitness. Making sound choices when it comes to buying a vehicle can make a big
difference to your chances of avoiding a crash and can greatly improve your chance of survival if you are involved in a
crash.
The importance of a safe vehicle – star ratings
You may have owned your vehicle for many years and feel comfortable driving it. However it’s important to regularly
check that your vehicle meets your needs. If you decide to purchase a vehicle, whether it’s a new or used vehicle, check
the safety rating of the vehicle. For used cars, the Used Car Safety Rating program provides safety information for used
cars based on crash test results. The Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) crash tests provide information
on the level of safety and details the fitted safety features such as structural design, restraints and airbags of new cars.
The more stars a car is awarded, the better it will perform in a crash. It is recommended you drive a car with a 5 star
rating - 5 stars being the safest crash rating.
Choose the right vehicle for you
If purchasing a vehicle try to buy a new vehicle with a high star rating or a second hand vehicle with a high used car
safety rating. Research has shown that newer cars are safer in the event of a crash. Later model cars are fitted with
crumple zones and impact absorption features that offer greater protection to you and your passengers. Older models do
not absorb the force of a crash to the same extent which puts occupants at a greater risk. Remember - not all new
vehicles offer the same safety protection. Make sure you check the star rating. If the vehicle you like does not have the
safety features you want as standard, see if they are available as an additional safety package.
Important vehicle features to look for
Modern vehicles are increasingly being fitted with new safety features that can prevent crashes and injuries to drivers
and their passengers. In addition, they can make driving an easier task, less stressful and more enjoyable. It is important
to consider all safety options and factors when choosing a vehicle. Remember new technologies can make your vehicle
handle differently. Take the time to adjust to new features and understand their limitations. You may find some features
distracting or difficult to use, so choose features that suit your needs. Safety features are designed to assist you however
be careful not to become over reliant on them. The table below shows what features to look for.
Vehicle feature
Why it is important
Seatbelts
Seatbelts are highly effective at reducing impact injuries during a crash. Enhanced seatbelt
features include:
 lap-sash seatbelts, that go across the lap and chest and found in most modern cars, distribute
the force of a crash more evenly across the body and reduce the likelihood of injury
 adjustable seatbelt shoulder anchorage which provide greater comfort while driving
 belt-force limiting (load-limiting) and pre-tensioning seatbelts which provide greater support
in a crash
 seatbelt reminders.
Air bags
Air bags can significantly reduce serious head, neck and chest injuries in crashes. As you get older
you are more susceptible to chest and rib damage which makes front, side, knee and curtain
airbags a very important feature.
TRB Forms Area S5038 V01 Dec 2013
Vehicle feature
Why it is important
Vehicle control
When purchasing a vehicle look for features that improve vehicle control as they have been
proven to reduce crash risk. Such as:
 power steering
 cruise control
 electronic stability control (ESC)
 anti-lock braking system (ABS)
 brake assist
 traction control
 lane departure and over speed warnings
 hill launch assist
 automatic transmission
Many of these features have become standard in vehicles since the 2012 model year. Also, you
may develop a disability or health conditions that make it difficult to use your vehicle’s controls.
Sometimes upgrading to a newer model can make driving easier.
Intelligent
transport systems
In-vehicle intelligent transport systems can provide prompts to assist your driving and alert you to
potential hazards. Systems which may support safe driving include:
 GPS route guidance
 reversing aids (sensors/cameras)
 blind spot monitoring
 forward and intersection collision warning
 attention assist (fatigue detection)
 emergency post-crash alert systems that automatically contact emergency services in the
event of a serious crash.
Ease of access
Easy access in and out of a vehicle is important for those with limited mobility. Look for:
 large door openings
 good seat height that does not require too much bending, climbing or ducking.
Visibility
Vehicles that offer excellent visibility and easy to read control displays are particularly useful for
those with vision issues. Look for:
 convex (wide angle) side and rear view mirrors
 daytime running lamps
 adaptive front lighting system
 rain-sensing windscreen wipers
 larger text and buttons
 easy-to-read / brightly coloured displays
 visor extensions, which can eliminate glare
 automatic dimming (glare proof) mirrors.
Comfort
Comfort can impact on your driving performance and safety. Look for:
 power seats that make adjustments for comfort and safety
 lumbar seat support for good posture
 seat cushions
 adjustable steering column and pedals
 adjustable head restraints
 ceiling grip handles.
TRB Forms Area S5038 V01 Dec 2013