RSVP held its' first round of CarFit events in May and June. Despite some days of heat and rain, trained volunteers persevered in checking the person-to-vehicle fit for more than 30 drivers.
Follow up surveys conducted with drivers after the events revealed that 85% had at least one item that needed adjusting in their vehicle. Resetting one or both side view mirrors to reduce or eliminate blind spots proved to be the biggest item of adjustment with two-thirds of drivers reporting this change. Changing the tilt of the steering wheel to aim the airbag into the chest rather than the face was suggested to one-third of the drivers needing adjustments. Showing drivers how to move their seats and adjust the height of their seat belts into a more comfortable position were other common educational pieces.
"Changing the seat [position] made all the difference in the world. I'm very pleased with the results", remarked one driver. Most found the event to be a very good learning experience and many drivers commented that they passed along CarFit educational materials and information about upcoming events to friends and family. "Drivers of all ages would benefit from having adjustments done", noted another driver.
Future CarFit events are being scheduled in the Twin Cities and East Central Minnesota for fall 2012. If you are interested in getting involved as a volunteer, hosting a CarFit event at your organization, or attending an event as a driver, contact RSVP at 952-945-4161. For more information about CarFit, visit the website at www.car-fit.org
