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PRE-TRIP SELF-PREPARATION AND PLANNING "Am I Fit to Drive Today?" You should ask yourself this simple question before you get behind the wheel—every time. Our driving fitness can vary due to medications, medical conditions, stress, fatigue, weather conditions, or even the time of day. It seems routine for so many of us, but driving safely is a complex skill that requires adequate physical, visual, and mental abilities—abilities that change due to age and medical conditions. Trip Planning and Selecting Routes Safety starts with planning. That means choosing your routes before you leave. This can help you reduce stress and avoid potentially dangerous situations. You have plenty of web-based resources and navigation systems available to help you choose the best way to go. These tools can also give you a good estimate of travel time required, so you can plan when to leave. Here are several trip planning tools you can use: X Mobile apps on a smartphone X Navigation systems (installed, added to a vehicle, or linked from a smartphone) X Online map tools and other websites X Paper maps There are several things to consider when choosing routes: X What is the safest route to my destination? X What areas do I want to avoid? For example, are there busy or confusing intersections, frequent left turns, poorly lit streets, or construction sites? X Can I combine trips? X Have I checked the latest traffic updates using my smartphone navigation system or mobile apps? X What are the emergency evacuation routes in my community? Once you select a route, think about making your trip as safe and pleasurable as possible. This could mean having your electronic toll payment system secured to your windshield or having money easily accessible. You can also schedule your trip to avoid: X Rush-hour traffic X High-speed roads X Bad weather (current and predicted) X Dimly lit conditions X Times when you, the driver, are not at your best "What Do I Need to Bring?" A smart driver is a prepared driver. No matter where you're headed, there are certain preparedness items every driver should have in their vehicle. Learn more about What Do I Need To Bring? in the Vehicle Companion Guide. Emergency Response Systems These systems engage when sensors in the vehicle detect a collision or when you manually activate the system for help. When activated, the system will locate your vehicle using GPS technology and notify emergency personnel that you may need immediate assistance. AARP 42 ARE WE READY TO DRIVE? 3 1 2 3 5 6 4