Older Driver Safety Awareness Week

December 5, 2023

Getting older is no fun. Your bones hurt, your hair starts to fall out, and you find yourself forgetting things. Like Traffic Tip Tuesday for example. So, enjoy this slightly forgetful edition of Traffic Tip Wednesday.

The Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration is highlighting tips and resources for older drivers and their families as part of Older Driver Safety Awareness Week, Monday, December 4, through Friday, December 8, to empower those who can drive safely to continue to do so.

There are some parts of aging that we just can’t control. Our physical, visual, and cognitive health can begin to decline. It is important that you maintain regular check-ups with your doctor. If you have an older driver in your life, make sure they are taking care of themselves so they can stay safe on the road.

Another side effect of age that can affect our driving is medication. Did you know that two-thirds of drivers aged 65 and older take five or more medications every day? You should make sure you are familiar with the potential side effects and know which prescriptions can hinder your ability to drive a vehicle safely.

I feel like I mentioned something about forgetfulness earlier, but I really can’t remember. Some of our more “seasoned” motorists may start to see cognitive decline in their later years. It is important that they, or their care takers, make a plan to ensure that they get to where they are going safely. My number one fan, Nancy, also asked me to remind people that they should remember to have their required documents with them any time they drive. Make sure to carry your license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance anytime you head out and have them easily accessible in the event of a stop or a crash.

You can find more information on the Maryland MVA website. https://mva.maryland.gov/Pages/NewsDetails2.aspx?NR=2023474

That’s all for now, and remember……wait, what was I saying?

Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.

HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org

Safety with the Sun

November 14, 2023

Now that Autumn is in full swing, the sun is rising earlier and hanging lower in the sky. Sun-drenched roads and clear skies are often associated with pleasant drives, but a glaring sun can quickly turn a scenic journey into a safety hazard. Driving with the sun in your eyes can significantly impair your vision, making it difficult to see the road ahead, identify potential hazards, and react to traffic changes promptly.

The sun’s intense rays can reflect off various surfaces, including windshields, windows, and road surfaces, creating a blinding effect that can temporarily hinder your vision. This temporary vision impairment can lead to several dangerous situations on the road such as reduced visibility, delayed reaction time, and driver fatigue (squinting is a lot more work than you may realize).

To minimize the risks of driving with the sun in your eyes, follow these safety tips:

Plan your trips to avoid driving during sunrise and sunset hours when the sun is low in the sky and more likely to shine directly into your eyes.
Wear polarized sunglasses: Polarized sunglasses are specifically designed to reduce glare. Utilize your sun visor: Adjust your sun visor to block the direct sunlight from your eyes.

Slow down: Reduce your speed to allow more time to react to potential hazards.

Increase following distance: Keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow for more stopping time.

Remember, driving safely requires being proactive and adapting to changing conditions. By following these tips and prioritizing your safety, you can navigate challenging driving conditions, including sun glare, and continue to enjoy your journeys.

HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org
@hcsotrafficsgt on Instagram

Happy Halloween 2023

October 31, 2023

Vehicle Security

October 24, 2023

This morning, my dog Winston and I were out for our morning walk contemplating all the way that drivers can keep themselves safe. As usually happens in the morning, Winston stopped to do some contemplating of his own. While I waited for him to finish his alone time, I noticed the slightest bit of frost on the neighbor’s grass. This was a gentle reminder that cold weather is coming and with that one of the worst driving habits of the year will soon rear its ugly head.

When you are cold and shivering and need to get that morning cup of coffee on the way to work, one of the worst things you can do is leave your vehicle running. First, car thieves target this exact situation. They will wait around convenience stores and day care centers (kiddie drop off time) and steal cars from unsuspecting motorists who are ‘just running in for a minute.’ It only takes a matter of seconds for a savvy thief to make off with your car. What is worse is that, when you call the police to report the theft (which you absolutely should do) you will most likely get a citation for traffic article 21-1101a: Leaving unattended veh. without stopping engine, locking ignition, removing key and setting brake. This carries a $70 fine and 1 point against your driving record.

Secondly, even if you do shut off your engine to go into an establishment, be sure to lock your doors and keep your valuables out of sight. Thieves just love looking into an unlocked vehicle and seeing ipads, cell phones, purses, or other valuables lying around for the taking.

These are a couple of very simple things that you can do to keep your vehicle and your property safe. Oh, and if neighbor Joan is reading this, don’t worry, I picked up Winston’s ‘contemplation’ and put it in the trash where it belongs.

Until next week, slow down, pay attention, wear your seatbelt, and drive safely.

HCSO Main Line – 410.838.6600
Northern Precinct – 410.692.7880
Southern Precinct – 410.612.1717
HCSO Traffic Unit – 443.409.3324
traffictiptuesday@harfordsheriff.org
@hcsotrafficsgt on Instagram