Pioneer Tech to host senior citizen driving safety course January 8

The American Association of Retired Persons will be hosting two “Smart Driving” Courses in Ponca City on Monday, January 8, and Tuesday, January 9, from 6 pm - 9 pm at the Pioneer Technology Conference Center located at 2101 North Ash Street.

The course is open to the public. Space is limited so signup to reserve a place by calling host, Hannah Henley at 580-767-1276 or AARP Volunteer Instructor Kevin R. Hackett at 405-714-1002 for questions or more information about the course.

The cost of the course is $20 for AARP Members (bring your card to course) or $25 for non-AARP members.

This course includes the latest related information as well as strategies for driving safely longer allowing motorists the chance to lower their auto insurance premiums and update themselves on changes in the driving landscape and motoring rules.

Attendance for both evenings is required to receive a completion certificate.

Kevin R. Hackett, local AARP Driver Instructor, shared more details on the benefits from attending the course.

“The Driving landscape has changed dramatically in the past 10 years and our vehicles have seen drastic updates since many drivers received their driver’s licenses,” said Hackett in a news release.

“Everyone can benefit from the updated curriculum. As the number of older drivers increase, it is critical that we optimize the driving experience for capable older adults by helping them become more confident, knowledgeable drivers to reduce social isolation issues and financial costs, while making the roads safer for all,” he explained.

“Research shows that older drivers can benefit from additional training on such things as managing roundabouts, pavement markings, turn signal use and sign compliance. The course covers safety strategies that reduce the likelihood of a crash as they learn about how aging, medication, alcohol, and other health related issues affect driving ability. It also will include how to adjust driving accordingly to allow for these changes as well as changes in the vehicles that are available now.”

States and Insurance companies agree with the research because they offer a reduction on auto insurance rates for up to three years after completion of this course and when certificate is provided to them. Participants are encouraged to consult their insurance agent for details on their discounts.

Participants will receive a participant guidebook as part of the course.

This AARP Smart Driving program and new materials were developed with input and representation from more than fifteen related organizations making up the National Older Driver Safety Expert Panel and in consultation with many other safety, motor vehicle, transportation, and medical groups.

A course, We Need to Talk, is also available to those who care about and are worried about older drivers.

It is designed to help individuals and families begin the conversation with individuals about the need to limit or stopping driving.

It is a 60 to 90-minute program that covers both physical and social issues of not driving, making objective observations about driving safely, and developing strategies and developing a plan for more successful and sensitive conversations about limiting or stopping driving for those we are concerned about.

It includes handouts and would be an excellent civic club, professional group or other interested group program.

Program can be scheduled by contacting Hackett at 405-714-1002 for more information.