OVRDC Participates in Free CARFIT Inspection Event for Mature Drivers
On July 10, 2024, OVRDC and regional mobility managers hosted a CARFIT free-inspection event for senior drivers at the Brown County Fairgrounds. Ohio Statewide CarFit Coordinator Angie Wise, from the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging, and certified technicians were on hand to educate drivers and recommend improvements that will help drivers make safety adjustments.
The event had 14 participants who stopped by for a free one-on-one educational session. A proper fit in one’s personal vehicle can greatly increase not only the driver’s safety but also the safety of others.
The CARFIT program is designed to promote road safety and to help senior drivers find out how well they currently fit their personal vehicle, as well as to highlight actions they can take to improve their fit. Regional mobility managers are involved in the project to promote conversations about driver safety and community mobility.
Three quick examples underscore the importance of road safety to the CARFIT program, which reviews twelve key areas of the driver’s fit to their personal vehicle.
- Example one: Knowing how to properly adjust one’s mirrors can greatly minimize blind spots for drivers who may wish to change lanes.
- Example two: Good foot positioning on the gas and brake pedals is important. If the driver is reaching with his or her toes to press on the pedals, it can cause fatigue in one’s leg and slowed reaction times.
- Example three: Drivers run a risk of serious injury if they are sitting closer than 10 inches to the steering wheel.
Mobility Management in Southern Ohio
OVRDC is committed to working with Mobility Managers of the region to identify and remove transportation barriers for all residents. Transportation is a critical component to quality of life for communities in the OVRDC Region. Transportation provides access to jobs, education, health care, human services and allows all community members, including older adults and people with disabilities, to live independently and engage in community life.
