Secretary of State and AARP Michigan Team Up to Improve Senior Driver Safety

Senior drivers and their families have access to more resources, help and information than ever before, thanks to a new cooperative effort initiated this summer by the Michigan Secretary of State and AARP Michigan.

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land has placed 10,000 AARP Driver Safety Program brochures in selected offices throughout Michigan, complementing her department's efforts to enhance driver safety and recognizing the role that AARP plays in helping to advance that goal.

The AARP Driver Safety Program is the nation's first and largest classroom driver refresher course specifically designed for motorists age 50 and older. Program instructor brochures are being placed in the offices, as well. AARP Michigan is also working with the Secretary of State's offices to increase awareness and use of the Driver Safety Program by office employees. Driver's licensing examiners are being made aware of the program as they work with seniors who are undergoing license reviews.

"Working with AARP Michigan to ensure senior driver safety makes sense," Land said. "We share the same goal - to work proactively with seniors to prevent problems rather than react to them, while preserving their dignity and need for mobility. We are pleased to make AARP driver safety resources available through our offices, and look forward to continuing our work with the association."

AARP Michigan State President Dr. George Rowan highlighted the benefits to Michigan motorists of AARP working in tandem with the Michigan Secretary of State.

"We appreciate the Secretary of State's commitment to making resources available to senior drivers and their families," Rowan said. "Together, we are providing them with more options and information than ever before."

According to Land, one of every seven drivers in Michigan is over the age of 65. She pointed out, however, that age alone should not determine a person's fitness to drive. Medical conditions and other factors can affect motorists of any age.

The AARP Driver Safety Program is an eight-hour course typically taught in two, four-hour sessions spanning two days, and costs $10. The course helps drivers refine existing skills and develop safe, defensive driving techniques. AARP members and nonmembers alike may take the course.

Family members and others may also make referrals to the Secretary of State's offices if they have concerns about the driving skills of a senior or any other motorist, or they can contact AARP for information. AARP and the Secretary of State offer comprehensive information and resources through their Web sites, www.aarp.org and www.michigan.gov/sos.