Put a “Senior Driving” sign on the car of an elderly driver, most people felt considerate and kind. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Feb. 12 (Korea Bizwire) — The Korea Transportation Safety Authority (KTSA) reported on February 11 that approximately 70% of elderly drivers felt they received more courteous treatment and right-of-way considerations from other drivers after displaying “Senior Driver” signs on their vehicles.
The initiative, launched in September last year in Busan, aimed to promote a more considerate driving culture by encouraging other drivers and pedestrians to be more mindful of elderly drivers through the use of these distinctive signs.
In a recent survey, 65% of the 95 participating elderly drivers (aged 65 and above) indicated that the signs helped improve their driving safety. Additionally, 93% of 96 general citizens surveyed expressed willingness to show extra consideration to vehicles displaying the senior driver signs.
However, when asked about their own future intentions, only 35% of current drivers said they would be willing to display such signs when they become senior drivers themselves, citing concerns about potential stigma from other drivers.
The KTSA plans to collaborate with other traffic safety organizations to develop strategies to increase participation in the senior driver sign program.
“The senior driver signs are helping to foster a more considerate and yielding driving culture,” said Jeong Yong-sik, president of the KTSA. “We will continue our efforts to create a safer traffic environment by implementing tailored safety measures for vulnerable road users, from children to the elderly.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
