By Katta Mapes, Realtor® SRES, CPRES
The Walter Team at Diamondback Real Estate will rattle the market FOR you
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How to Talk to Someone About Unsafe Driving
If you've noticed that a friend or family member might not be driving safely, it's essential to have an open and caring conversation. Topics like driving can be hard to discuss because they touch on independence and identity. Here are some helpful tips on how to approach these conversations.
Why It Matters
For many people, driving is more than just getting from one place to another. It represents freedom, independence, and a big part of their daily life. That's why you'll want to approach the subject thoughtfully. It’s important not only to express your concern but to also be sensitive to how the other person might feel about their driving situation.
Choosing the Right Person
The first step is to decide who should have the conversation with the driver. It’s usually best if it’s someone they trust, like a spouse, an adult child, or even their doctor. This person can speak openly without making the driver feel defensive.
Observing and Understanding
Before jumping into the conversation, spend some time observing the driver. Have they struggled with tasks like parallel parking or managing speed? You can write down specific examples to reference during your discussion. This approach helps others see that your concerns are based on actual observations, making them less likely to feel attacked.
Another essential point to bring up is whether a doctor has checked any medical conditions or medications that might affect driving abilities. Sometimes underlying health issues or new medications can impact someone’s driving without them realizing it.
Having the Conversation
When you finally sit down to talk, start by expressing your genuine concern for their well-being. Use "I" statements to communicate your feelings, like, “I’ve been worried about your safety on the road since your surgery.” Try to avoid saying things that might come off as accusatory, such as “You’re not safe to drive anymore.”
Always listen to what the person has to say. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. Showing compassion can help preserve their self-respect while also making them more open to your suggestions.
Support and Solutions
During the conversations, acknowledge any changes they have already made, like driving less or avoiding night trips. This shows that you notice their efforts and are supportive.
It can also be helpful to talk about alternative transportation options. These might include rides from family and friends, public transport, or even rideshare services. Highlighting these alternatives can make the idea of reducing driving less daunting.
If necessary, encourage them to get a formal evaluation from an occupational therapist who specializes in driver rehabilitation. This can provide a professional perspective on their driving ability.
Last Resort
If all else fails, and you truly believe that the person poses a danger on the road, you may have to consider reporting them to your state’s department of motor vehicles. This should be a last resort, and it's essential to check the confidentiality policies in your state to understand what will happen if you decide to take this step.
Having conversations about driving safety can be challenging, but they’re crucial for the safety of everyone on the road. Stay considerate, offer support, and prioritize your loved one's health and safety throughout the discussions.
Note: This blog content is a joint venture with natural and artificial intelligence
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