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Whatever you do, do NOT walk on the side of the road in Nebraska
There are currently 91 people in Nebraska over the age of 100 who have valid driver licenses. While most elderly drivers are confronted much sooner with the issue of giving up the car keys, it can be an ordeal at any age. There is a way to make it less stressful.
When you've been in business for 60 years like the Gateway Inn in Ashland has, every subject has passed through at one time or another. Pick a table and they've likely had to face the truth with their mother or father. Judy Turner of Omaha has. "She didn't want to give up her car at all." Judy had noticed her mother's driving getting worse, but others didn't hesitate to point it out. One man told her. "I can walk faster than your mom can drive." Sometimes the decision to take the keys away goes smoothly. It did for Ruth Porter of Ashland. "She gave up her license willingly because she was in poor health."
Some drivers will do most anything to keep their independence and stay behind the wheel. "Everything from disabling the vehicle to hiding the keys," said Fred Zwonechek with the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety. "I've even had people tell me they've hidden the car and the relative will go out and buy another car." It's at those times when a little known rule is often exercised, and these are examples. Letters written to the State of Nebraska, alerting the Department of Motor Vehicles to a driver's problem. Letters full of stories, like the driver blacked out or was disoriented, showed other signs of forgetfulness, or was involved in an accident. If there's enough evidence, the state can make the license holder come in for a driving test. "About 95% of those that are recalled are in fact, do end up having their licenses revoked or suspended," said Zwonechek.
The recall letters have been used for years, but not typically by the general public. Often it's law enforcement, even doctors who turn them in. But some do come from families, handwritten stories of worry and despair. It's an avenue that can be used by any family. The state wants us to know that. Any family can use it, the writer remains anonymous, safeguards are in place, and the state looks for other evidence. And what's key, the letter writer can remain anonymous. There are safeguards so the elderly are not targeted unfairly. Just because the state receives a letter doesn't mean the driver will have to take a driving test. Often times, the state will do its own investigating, looking for evidence that backs up the letter.
While writing a recall letter wasn't necessary to these Nebraskans, they can understand why some families would use it. "I'm worried about giving up mine," said Porter. A secret option to keep their loved ones and others safe on the road.
In Nebraska, a recall letter may be sent to:
State of Nebraska.
P.O. Box 94726
Lincoln, Nebraska 68509
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