At our Port Orange law firm, we understand that not every accident is necessarily caused by the same factor. However, given past trends, it is helpful to keep in mind which factors seem to pose statistical risks on the road. To this end, we offer the following information on senior drivers and their historical relationship with auto accidents.
Age and Driving Ability
Some drivers may view their ability to operate a vehicle as simply a matter of experience. After all, if you have been comfortably driving for decades, it is indeed safe to say that you know what you’re doing. Unfortunately, knowledge and experience are not the only factors in play when it comes to an activity that is at least partially physical. Driving requires a degree of focus, attentiveness, reaction, and motor skills, which may be affected over time by any number of conditions. Any of the following can play a significant role in one’s driving competence:
- Arthritis
- Weak muscles
- Decreased range of motion
- Vision problems
- Decreased cognition
- Fatigue
- Environment distractions
- Slowed reaction times
Furthermore, when senior drivers are involved in accidents, they tend to sustain greater injuries due to increased fragility and recovery time. After the age of 75, the rate of fatal crashes gradually increases, rising sharply for drivers over the age of 80. For drivers over the age of 85, the fatality rate in crashes is nine times higher than for drivers between the ages of 25 and 69.
Senior Auto Accidents
It would be irresponsible to suggest that auto accidents are caused purely due to someone’s age, especially when considering the vast differences in health and driving ability within any given age. Still, when looking at holistic trends across age groups, there is strong evidence to suggest that age plays a significant role in driving risk. For instance, the rate of accidents stays relatively stable for drivers aged 30 through 60. However, as drivers continue driving through their 60s, 70s, and 80s, the accident rate climbs from roughly 14 accidents per million miles driven to over 26. This approaches the accident rate of brand new drivers who are 16 or 17 years old. In effect, as drivers near the age of 80, they are statistically as likely to be in an accident as someone who is perpetually inexperienced.
Determining Fault
If you are involved in an accident, the best thing to do is to maintain a clear head and objectively document the causes and conditions of the crash. Avoid making any snap judgments about a driver simply based on age, but rather, focus on what that driver was doing directly before the crash. Replay the scenario in your head exactly as it occurred, in regard to what each driver was doing. If you have any sort of camera with you, take pictures of the accident as soon as you can for evidence. If witnesses were present, kindly ask them if they would be willing to exchange information for future reference. After calling law enforcement, be sure to describe all details that you recall, so that the police report can accurately reflect the nature of the accident.
If your accident was indeed caused by another person’s negligent driving, we want to help you receive compensation for your damages. It can be difficult for some drivers to accept fault, especially if they have been driving for many years and have an otherwise respectable record. By compiling a multitude of evidence and presenting it cogently in court, we can assure that your case is fairly represented, giving you the best chance of receiving full compensation.
Meet with Joe Horrox
Joe Horrox has the skill and experience to represent you fairly in regard to your auto accident or other injury. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and see how we can help you build your case.