Factors that Increase Accidents Among Elderly Drivers
“In 2017, there were almost 44 million licensed drivers aged 65 and older in the United States. This is a 63% increase from 1999.1 Driving helps older adults stay mobile and independent. But the risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle crash increases as people age.”
According to the NHTSA, “6,907 PEOPLE 65 AND OLDER KILLED IN TRAFFIC CRASHES IN 2018 (19% OF ALL TRAFFIC FATALITIES)”
Why such a large percentage? The National Institute on Aging listed a few factors that could provoke a car accident for elderly drivers:
- Stiff joints and muscles
- Trouble seeing
- Trouble Hearing
- Memory loss
- Slower Reaction Time and Reflexes
- Medications that affect driving
Its important we are aware of these factors so that we can address them and in turn decrease accidents among elderly drivers. Stay tuned for our next blog on steps elderly drivers can take to diminish their chances of being involved in an accident.