With all the car crashes continually happening, many of them ending up in fatalities, I’m so glad I’m not driving anymore. As a senior, a recent accident convinced me to stop. I had been feeling insecure behind the wheel lately, and since it was a minor accident with no injuries, I felt very lucky and took it as a warning that the next one could be worse.

As many seniors do, I worried that I would lose my independence. Still, with ordering my groceries online, paying many of my bills this convenient way, and walking to nearby places, such as my hairdresser and nail salon, I felt as independent as ever, especially since I didn’t give up my usual activities of yoga and senior dances. Taking Uber proved to be an inexpensive and easy way to get around, although I appreciated rides when I could get them, and my daughter was usually available to drive me to my doctor and dentist appointments, which were further away. If not, Uber would do in a pinch.

I found that Uber and grocery delivery services were actually less expensive than owning a car with all its costs, such as auto insurance, registration and maintenance, and keeping the gas tank filled, but the best benefit was feeling much more relaxed and at peace since I didn’t have to stress about getting into an accident where I might injure someone. The noise and congestion of being in traffic and the hostility of other drivers on the road were also things I did not miss.

I knew it was time to stop, and I accepted it and adjusted to it, in spite of some people who tried to convince me to keep driving, and I have to say I’m very happy with my decision, knowing it was the right one for me.