A new program by the name of CarFit is released in order to keep the rising numbers of elderly 65 years and up safe on our roads. It is expected that the number of drivers in Ohio will exceed 4.8 million residents.

  According to 10 WNBS, “A lot of people don’t know what it is, don’t understand it. It is meant to help reduce risk behind the wheel and reduce risk if you are in a crash,” said Kimberly Schwind, the assistant director and training programs administrator for the Ohio Traffic Safety Office.

   Delaware County is one of the places with this new program in action. Members of the health department conduct tests through different checkpoints established within the car. These tests are to help elders remain comfortable and confident on the roads and in their cars. This is crucial because while these locals have a lot of experience, times have changed and new safety precautions are put into place as we develop more technology. 

   Personally, as a driver myself, I find it comforting to know that our community has taken the steps that are necessary to keep all drivers safe and knowledgeable about the operation of motorized vehicles and the huge responsibility that comes with it.

   “We educate them on how to properly wear their seatbelt, the distance to the steering wheel can make a big difference if you are in a crash with that airbag coming out, the position of the headrest…we work to minimize blind spots,” Schwind said.

   As you age, reflexes and response time gradually increase which makes it all more important to educate and refresh our local elders on safety rules and tips to keep them safe. I feel that this new program is also very important not only for the people inside the car but for the people that it can affect everywhere on the roads. 

   According to driver data, Ohio hit an all-time high of 299 car-related deaths in 2021, and the state has prioritized a decrease in these numbers through this new program.