Every senior citizen wants to be as independent as possible for as long as possible and the mobility of being able to drive is a huge part of that independence. However, seniors are statistically more likely to be involved in serious and sometimes fatal car crashes than younger drivers. Seniors are also more likely to be critically injured or killed in crashes due to the physical vulnerabilities that increase with age.
AAA launched Older Driver Safety Awareness Week last month to promote safe driving for seniors and to offer guidance, materials and online tools to help seniors stay safe on the road.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, senior citizens as a group have a high fatal crash rate per miles driven. In 2006, there were 30 million licensed elderly drivers in the U.S. and 6,017 were killed in crashes, about 14 percent of the total number of traffic fatalities that year.
In 2008, elderly drivers accounted for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities and 18 percent of all pedestrian deaths. Statistically, there are three behaviors that are especially common and risky for senior drivers: poor judgment when making left hand turns, drifting in and out of traffic lanes and having poor reflexes and reaction times.
By 2030, one in five people will be at least 65 years old and nearly 10 million people will be 85 years old or older. This means that now, more than ever, we should focus on the future and how we can keep our roadways safe.
Tips to Stay Safe
There are three general physical impairments to driving safely as an ageing driver. Changes in vision, physical fitness and reaction time can endanger your life and the lives of other drivers and passengers.
Symptoms of declining vision may include struggling to read traffic signs and difficulty seeing curbs, lane lines, medians, other vehicles and pedestrians. Also, if you experience discomfort from oncoming headlights when driving at night, you may need your vision tested.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles has information to help keep elderly drivers safe, some tips include:
- If you need glasses or contact lenses, wear them while driving and make sure your prescription is current
- Keep your vehicle's windshield, windows and mirrors clean to improve visibility
- To stay physically fit, start a walking routine and stretch regularly
- Avoid driving after taking medications that cause fatigue or dizziness
Most importantly, be on the alert for warning signs that you are unable to drive safely. Handing over the keys when it's necessary could save your life and the lives of others on the road. If you or your aging family member has been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to speak to an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about your rights and options.
