Driving Risks Increase as Population Ages
A fatal car crash caused by an elderly driver exemplifies the safe-driving limitations that seniors may face. As the population ages, accidents involving elderly drivers are likely to increase.
February 04, 2011
Driving Risks Increase as Population AgesA fatal car crash involving a 28-year-old man and an 81-year-old woman highlights the dangers that can exist with elderly drivers. As the Baby Boom generation ages, auto accidents caused by senior drivers' reduced capabilities are likely to increase.
Elderly Driver At Fault in Fatal Accident
A recent accident caused by an elderly driver exemplifies the troubles seniors may have when driving. Massachusetts State Police reported that an 81-year-old woman was driving on the on-ramp to Route 24 in Taunton, Massachusetts, when she lost control of her car.
The elderly driver veered off the ramp, drove across a grassy median and crashed into an SUV, causing it to roll over. The driver of the SUV was not wearing a seatbelt and died from injuries sustained in the accident. The elderly driver also suffered severe injuries.
Senior Driver Dangers
According to the National Transportation Safety Board, within 15 years more than 20 percent of licensed drivers will be age 65 for older. In addition, the U.S. Government Accountability Office estimates that the number of licensed drivers over age 65 will increase from 30 million now to about 57 million senior drivers by the year 2030. With advancing age, increasing limitations and medical conditions can impair safe driving.
Joseph Coughlin, founder and director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology AgeLab, said older drivers generally have slower reflexes, are less able to judge speed and distances and may have decreased flexibility that limits their ability to turn and see their surroundings. Even a 40-year-old driver needs 20 times more light to see at night than a 20-year-old does, Coughlin stated.
Further, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that fatal crash rates for drivers increase dramatically at age 75. Drivers over age 85 have a higher fatality rate than teenagers. According to the IIHS, this is because older drivers are frailer and less likely to survive an accident.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash with an elderly driver, contact an auto accident attorney in your area. A lawyer experienced in cases involving senior drivers can discuss any legal claims you may have.
Article provided by Law Offices of Daniel A. Capodilupo
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