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AAA recently trained Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers to become CarFit technicians, during a one-day training at Chesrown Chevrolet Buick GMC. The training also included a free CarFit event, which was open to all senior drivers.
Chesrown Chevrolet, Buick, GMC is the only AAA CarFit Approved dealership in the country. AAA trained the dealership’s sales staff to be CarFit technicians in June, so staff can assist drivers in finding their perfect fit when purchasing a vehicle.
Seniors, age 65 and older, are the fastest growing age group in the United States, and are more mobile than ever before.
CarFit is a national program developed by AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association and is designed to give a quick, yet comprehensive check on how well an older driver and their vehicle work together.
“As we age, changes in our vision, flexibility, strength, range of motion and even size and height may make us less comfortable and reduce our control behind the wheel,” said Mary Lou Gallimore, traffic safety program manager for AAA Ohio Auto Club. “CarFit provides older adults with the tools to understand and apply the safety features of their car.”
During CarFit event, newly trained Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers completed a 12-point checklist with each driver. Among the items checked were the correct position of driver’s seat, driver’s ability to easily reach pedals, and the proper adjustment of mirrors.
“It is critically important that mature drivers make safety a personal priority,” said Gallimore. “Driving today is more difficult than ever because of increased traffic congestion, longer commute distances, new technology and faster speeds. Older drivers can take important measures to mitigate the stress associated with driving.”
For information about CarFit and other senior mobility issues and programs, visit SeniorDriving.AAA.com.
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