In 2018, more than 250,000 drivers aged 65 and older needed emergency medical treatment for injuries sustained in car accidents. Older motorists are more likely to get into car accidents compared to younger drivers because they tend to suffer from physical and cognitive impairments.
Elderly drivers can have difficulty processing information
It isn’t uncommon for older people to have trouble processing information in a timely manner. Therefore, they are more likely to roll through an intersection or remain oblivious to a pedestrian or animal that just ran into the road. Older motorists who have cognitive issues are also at risk of getting into a car wreck because of simple mental errors such as hitting the gas pedal instead of the brake.
Older drivers may be impacted by physical limitations
Older people may have a difficult time adequately pressing the gas or brake pedal. Therefore, they may have trouble stopping at a traffic light or keeping up with traffic on a busy highway. In some cases, rolling through an intersection can increase the chances of a collision that results in serious injuries or death. Driving too slow on a highway may result in other motorists acting in an aggressive manner.
What can senior drivers do to stay safe?
People who are 65 and older are encouraged to drive during the day and when the roads are in good condition. Furthermore, they are encouraged to wear their seat belts and to refrain from operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs, alcohol or prescription medications. Finally, it is a good idea to avoid distractions such as loud music, eating a sandwich or drinking coffee while driving.
If you’re hurt in a car accident caused by the negligence of another motorist, it may be a good idea to contact an attorney who could help you obtain compensation to help pay expenses incurred to treat a broken bone, laceration or concussion. Legal counsel may use witness statements, driver statements and other evidence to establish the other party’s fault.