PORTLAND – AARP Foundation’s AARP Smart Driver program now has more than 50 courses scheduled in the state of Maine which was announced today by Tom Harvey, Maine’s coordinator of the program.
“Since 1979, AARP has offered this comprehensive and affordable driver safety course designed to teach and renew defensive driving techniques,” says Harvey. “Although geared to drivers 50-plus, the course is available to drivers of any age who wish to brush up on their driving skills.”
AARP Smart Driver focuses on accident prevention measures, how to deal with aggressive drivers, and new rules and technology that affect driving. Topics include:
• Managing blind spots and lane-changing tactics.
• Tips to avoid tailgating practices.
• The effects of taking medication and operating a vehicle.
• Examination of cell phone use and other distractions while driving.
The course also introduces participants to the AARP webinar We Need to Talk (WNTT), an online toolkit designed to help adult children and their parents or grandparents have a constructive conversation about safe driving issues. The WNTT webinar is available at www.aarp.org/weneedtotalk.
Graduates of AARP Smart Driver may be eligible for discounts on their auto insurance. It is mandated by the state that AARP Smart Driver graduates who are 55 and older may receive a discount on their auto insurance on the condition that they meet certain other criteria such as having a clean driving record.
The course is coordinated and taught entirely by volunteers. Currently there are over 7,000 AARP-trained volunteer coordinators, marketers, and instructors nationwide. “In Maine, we are hoping to expand the program and are actively looking for new instructors,” said Harvey. “This is a wonderful way that AARP can connect you to people with shared interests and our instructors find this to be a rewarding and enjoyable volunteer experience.”
Courses across the state are being scheduled throughout the year on an ongoing basis. For more information, visit www.aarp.org/driversafety or call 1-800-350-7025.
