How Often Do Elder Drivers Cause Accidents?
Elder drivers, usually 65 or older, have higher accident rates than middle-aged drivers, but might be less often at fault than younger drivers. After age 75, the risk of at-fault accidents increases due to slower reactions and reduced vision. Other common causes include confusion at intersections, failing to yield, and trouble judging distances.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident with a senior driver, a car accident attorney will help protect your rights and seek fair compensation.
Who Counts as an “Elder Driver” in Georgetown?
Before we dive in, let’s define who might be considered an “elder” driver. Most studies consider elder drivers to be 65 or older, though some research looks specifically at drivers 70 or 80 and older. In Georgetown, with its large retiree population, senior drivers are an important group, whether starting at 65 or an older age.
What Do the Statistics Say?
According to recent data, drivers aged 70 and older have higher crash rates per mile driven compared to middle-aged drivers, but lower rates than those in the youngest group (16-19 years old). Fatal crash rates begin to rise after age 75 and increase significantly after age 80, largely due to greater vulnerability to injuries.
With the right precautions, older drivers can remain safe on the roads for many years to come.
Types of Accidents More Common Among Georgetown’s Elder Drivers
Some accidents happen more often with older drivers in our area:
- Crashes at intersections, like the tricky one at Highway 17 and Highway 701
- Failing to yield the right-of-way, especially when turning onto Front Street
- Accidents while turning left, which can be challenging on busy roads
- Fender benders in parking lots, like at the Georgetown Walmart
These often relate to issues with judging speeds and distances.
Factors That Increase Fault in Georgetown Elderly Driver Accidents
When elder drivers are at fault in Georgetown, it’s often because of confusion or disorientation, especially in areas with recent road changes. Failing to see other vehicles or pedestrians, particularly in busy downtown areas, can also be an issue. Older drivers might mistake the gas pedal for the brake or have a higher risk of medical emergencies while driving, leading to accidents.
As we get older, additional changes can impact driving in our area:
- Slower processing of information
- Decreased field of vision
- Trouble hearing emergency vehicles
- Stiff joints, making it hard to check blind spots
Recognizing these changes can help elderly drivers stay safe. Some signs that it might be time to hang up the keys include getting lost in familiar places, frequent “close calls” or minor accidents around town, trouble staying in the correct lane, or family and friends expressing concern.
It’s a tough decision, but safety should come first on Georgetown’s roads.
The Future of Elder Driving Safety in Georgetown
New technologies are helping Georgetown’s older drivers stay safer:
- Backup cameras and parking assistance, which are helpful in tight downtown spots
- Lane departure warnings, useful on Highway 17
- Automatic emergency braking
- GPS systems for navigation around our changing town
Our car accident lawyers from Oxner & Stacy Law Firm LLC can fight for the compensation you deserve, whether a senior driver hit you or you are an older driver injured by someone else. Call us at 843-527-8020 or contact us online for a case evaluation today.