CarFit is a national educational program to help older drivers find their safest fit. You might be wondering – what does that really mean?
During a CarFit event or 1:1 session, trained volunteers go through a 12-point checklist, guiding drivers through simple changes that can make a big difference for their driving experience including:
- Adjusting their seat belt for best protection
- Moving the steering wheel for improved visibility & airbag safety
- Positioning the head restraint to prevent neck injuries
- Moving the seat to comfortably reach gas and brake pedals
- Using mirrors and over-the-shoulder checks to reduce blind spots
- Recognizing safety features and technology
Making these changes enhances safety and comfort for all drivers but is especially important for older drivers, who are more likely to be fatally injured in a crash.
Get Involved
The NC Senior Driver Information Center, housed at the UNC Highway Safety Research Center (HSRC), helps coordinate the state-wide CarFit Program. We're here to support events, provide training, and offer resources to local programs.
There are many ways you can get involved with CarFit:
Partner with HSRC to host a community event
Curious about CarFit and want to see a session in action? Collaborate with HSRC to bring CarFit to your community.
If you're involved with Child Passenger Safety or are a Permanent Checking Station, consider hosting an Intergenerational Event providing CarFit checks alongside car seat checks, promoting older driver safety.
Get trained
Join over 150 CarFit Technicians and Coordinators in North Carolina. The CarFit certification program, managed nationally by AAA, AARP, and AOTA, offers local training sessions facilitated by Event Coordinators.
To schedule an individual or group training or for more information, reach out to info@ncseniordriver.org.
Set up a program in your community
Whether you're part of a senior center, occupational therapy department, or another community organization, you can integrate CarFit into your existing programs and services.
Learn more about setting up a program in your community in the NC CarFit Getting Started Guide.
For more information on the national CarFit program, visit https://car-fit.org/.
