The Otter Tail County Safe Communities Coalition encourages those aged 55 and older to participate in a Senior Driving Class to grow their driving skills and stay up to date on traffic rules and changes. People 55 and older who complete this course are eligible to receive a 10% discount for three years on their auto insurance.

The Office of Traffic Safety states that about one out of every four traffic fatalities in Minnesota involves a person aged 65 or older. With advancing age, there may be declines in physical, visual, and cognitive abilities, rendering older adults more susceptible to serious harm or fatalities in traffic accidents. By proactively improving driving skills, recognizing early signs of change, and intervening promptly, older drivers can maintain safe mobility, not just in Otter Tail County but throughout Minnesota.

Three upcoming refresher courses being held will have special guests from Otter Tail County. Otter Tail County’s Safe Communities Coalition Coordinator and Coordinator on Aging will engage in upcoming Senior Driving Classes to share information on the work of the Safe Communities Coalition through the Minnesota Toward Zero Deaths program, as well as share local resources for the older adult population.

Classes are held in three locations:

• April 10 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Perham

• April 23 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Underwood

Interested participants must pre-register and complete an 8-hour prerequisite before they participate in this 4-hour refresher course. Course prices may vary.

Contact Sheri Siira at (218) 298-0107 to sign up for the Fergus Falls or Underwood course. Contact Denise Lillis at (218) 346-3336 to sign up for the Perham course.