AARP Drivers Class

The AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) class has all people over 55 years old anxious to get a break on their insurance. In the class, we learned the most recent driving laws and we had a refresher on everything having to do with driving.

This was our first class. The classes are supposed to be renewed every three years and we will get a notice when the next class is due. We learned many new things and felt it was well worth our time.

The problem I had was getting up way too early this morning. And then having others yawn and close their eyes and I think at least one woman sitting right across from me went to sleep.

One woman was younger than me. The rest were all older including the instructor. When we arrived there were forms to complete and we were offered coffee, water, and sandwich cookies.

We each were given a workbook and at the end of each section, there was a short quiz we didn't have time for in class. The workbook gave us a format to follow and we were free to ask questions or add to the class as we saw fit.

A couple of highlights that were discussed was the legalizing of marijuana and how our age group appears to be using it the most, due to legalizing starting with the use for medical reasons. Our age group has the most medical issues so that would make sense.

When I had cancer, I was offered marijuana and declined as I am a woman in long-term recovery and there were plenty of other medications offered that handled the same conditions.

Then there was technology. All the distractions when driving. The programs that talk to you. Flashing warning lights, the cars that will stop for you. Even drive for you. All interesting information.

AARP members are likely to experience many of the latest technology in their newer cars. Unless they are like my husband and wants the least technology possible. He has admitted he likes the backup screen.

We were told we have to exercise though as that technology makes it so we don't have to turn around and look and we lose what we don't use. Never would have thought of that. Is that my neck problem? Lack of use.

Then for younger drivers, although it could probably be for older drivers as well: Under 18 should not be talking on the phone or using their phone even hands-free. (Maybe a Minnesota law only?)

Fyi: My husband has a flip phone and doesn't talk on the phone unless I am there to take his call for him.

We were told it was too much distraction for young people. I am on my daughter's 360 plan and my 17-year-old grandson has the most phone activity most weeks. I told my daughter what I learned and the grandson won't be happy.

Current law changes and discussion of why those changes were covered at length. Some made sense and others not so much.

The very best thing about the class was that it was 4 hours and not 8 hours. It used to be an 8-hour class. The husband never wanted to attend and he was the one who called and registered us so I went. The cost of insurance was responsible for sure.

Most everyone in the room complained about how insurance has gone up in the last two years. Of course, everything has gone up.

Probably the most popular conversations and topics were about motorcycles, bicycle lanes, roundabouts, traffic circles, recent accidents, deer, wild turkey, and bear accidents or near misses.