The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is bringing the CarFit program to Smith County. The program, designed to improve safety for older adults when they get behind the wheel of their vehicles, is set for June 20 in Tyler.
According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) there are 41.7 million licensed drivers in the US who are 65 years of age or older. CarFit is an educational program created by the American Society on Aging and developed in collaboration with AAA (American Automobile Association), AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association. It is a 12-point safety assessment performed by trained CarFit technicians that helps mature drivers “fit” safely and comfortably in their cars. The program offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles “fit” them and highlights actions they can take to improve their fit, and to promote conversations about driver safety and community mobility.
Driver safety programs improve adult driver safety by addressing cognitive abilities and skills. However, older drivers can also improve their safety by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted for them. A proper fit in one’s car can greatly increase not only the driver’s safety but also the safety of others.
At a CarFit event, a team of trained technicians work with each participant to ensure they “fit” their vehicle properly for maximum comfort and safety. Participants also receive information and materials on community-specific resources that could enhance their safety as drivers.
Smith County residents are encouraged to participate in this free event where TxDOT and its partners will present a personalized appointment with each participant on Thursday.
The schedule is as follows:
– When: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Thursday, June 20 (By Appointment Only)
– Where: The Hamptons Senior Living – 4250 Old Omen Rd., Tyler
– What: Individual sessions to check each participant’s vehicle “CarFit” (20-30 minutes per person)
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Heather Singleton, TxDOT Traffic Safety Specialist, at 903.510.9225 orHeather.Singleton@txdot.gov.