Impaired Elderly Drivers And Resulting Car Accidents At An Increased Rate Is A Growing Concern in Pennsylvania
According to a recent study, there is a growing concern about driver safety among the aging population which accounts for the second highest number of car accidents after teenagers. The study indicated that the main issue is not age but functional ability. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration people 65 years or older made up 14% of all traffic fatalities in the United States. Many times we take it for granted that when speaking with a friend or relative who brags about their elderly mother, father, or uncle who is still driving at age 92 that all is well and that this individual is safe for himself, herself and others.
Unfortunately, many of the elderly people are on the road with potential impairments that have not been revealed or noted with a restriction on their driver’s license. Many times, we are too proud to tell our parents or loved ones that they should not be driving when in fact their physical or mental conditions presents a hazard to other drivers on the highway. A recent study indicated that sensory loss in drivers such as vision and hearing loss is an important risk factor in car accidents.
We all recognize the invaluable contribution our seniors have made to our families, state and nation and by no means do I intend to demean or minimize them in any way; however, it is important to recognize for the safety of our loved ones as well as our elderly citizens that impaired functioning can affect their ability to safely operate a vehicle. Studies indicate that by 2030 drivers over 65 will likely account for over 25% of the total driver fatalities suffered in the U.S. as more elderly drivers are on the highway.
As an experienced Pennsylvania car accident lawyer since 1979, I unfortunately deal with the catastrophic injuries and fatalities resulting from accidents caused by and involving elderly drivers. Perhaps to mediate the problem, the state might consider more extensive testing of the faculties of elderly drivers as well as mandating in person license renewals. Perhaps we should consider visual testing since recent studies indicated that elderly drivers suffering from a 40% or greater reduction in their useful field of vision were more than 2.1 times more likely to be involved in a crash than those with less reduction. The issue with impaired elderly driving will eventually affect all of us in our lifetime at one point or another. The sad fact is eventually many of us will lose the ability to safely operate a vehicle as our physical and mental processes continue to deteriorate during the process of aging.
If you or a loved one has a recognizable mental or sensory impairment or reduction of physical capacity, it is my hope that this blog will stimulate you to respond and take a more conscientious approach to your own safety as well as the safety of others on the highway. The car accident law firm of Reiff & Bily is committed to keeping our highways safe and protecting the interests of Pennsylvania car accident victims. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, please feel free to contact us at 1-800-421-9595 or online at www.reiffandbily.com.
