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New Programs Aim to Promote Safe Driving for the Elderly

Articles & Publications

March 7, 2016

Today, older Americans are increasingly active. Many Elderly are involved with friends and their communities. Part of that lifestyle includes driving their own cars. The state of Delaware has the fastest growing older population in the country. There are currently over 250,000 drivers over the age of 60 in the state.

Older drivers face unique challenges on the road and can pose risks to other drivers. In response, many states and safety advocacy groups have examined ways to keep aging drivers on the road as long as possible while still maintaining the safety of everyone on the road.

Dangers for Elderly Drivers

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that 586 older adults are injured every day in traffic crashes. Older drivers may have more difficulty with vision, hearing, and motor skills than younger drivers. Additionally, a new Canadian study claims the older population has more difficulty processing stimuli and making quick decisions. These factors and more can lead to an increase in traffic accidents. Older drivers are typically involved in more incidents of:

  • Failure to yield
  • Backing into another vehicle
  • Failure to maintain appropriate speed
  • Hesitation in making driving decisions
  • Improper turns
  • Confusion in traffic

Keeping Older Drivers and All Drivers Safe on the Road

Understandably, many older drivers are reluctant to give up their keys and the independence that comes with being able to drive themselves. In response, a number of safety advocates and government groups have started to promote self-regulation. Online self-assessments and helpful tips can help older drivers and their families decide if it is safe for them to stay behind the wheel.

For Delaware drivers, the state website offers a number of useful tools, including pertinent information and a quiz to aid older drivers in examining their skills. A recent study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety claims that if older drivers can appropriately self-regulate, it could have a significant positive impact on society at large.

However, not everyone will take advantage of these tools, and serious accidents can result. If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a car accident, you may be entitled to make a claim. Chat live, email, or call a member of the experienced legal team at Morris James to learn more and set up a free, no-obligation consultation.

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