Elderly drivers inevitably face limitations that affect their ability to drive safely. When those limitations are not faced honestly and accounted for, the unfortunate result is many motor vehicle accidents that could have been avoided.
A recent study shows, however, that older drivers who regularly exercise their brains have fewer car accidents.
Elder-Driver Study
In a study reported in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, seniors who completed "brain training" had approximately 50 percent fewer auto accidents than those who did not do the training.
The brain training comprised 10 sessions of computer exercises intended to improve reasoning ability and fast thinking. Scientists from the University of South Florida and the University of Alabama performed the study of 908 older drivers with a mean age of 73.1 years.
The study indicates that performing exercises to keep one's mind sharp actually may improve skills and safety behind the wheel. This is particularly helpful for older drivers who experience increasing safety challenges as they age.
Senior Driver Statistics
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), fatal crash rates for senior drivers compared to other age groups begin to increase at age 75. Drivers over 85 years old have a higher fatality rate than drivers in their teens and early 20s. The IIHS reports that the main reason for older drivers' higher fatality rates is that they are less likely to survive an accident or recover from injuries.
In addition to greater frailty, seniors also may experience physical, visual and cognitive challenges that account for their higher rate of fatal car accidents. Joseph Coughlin is the founder and director the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's AgeLab, which develops technologies intended to help seniors stay active. Coughlin said that, in general, older drivers are less able to judge speed and distances and their reflexes are slower. Also, they are less flexible and may not be able to turn and look behind themselves as easily as before.
Improving Senior-Driving Safety
As a result of these challenges, some seniors give up driving altogether. However, the older-driver study shows that steps can be taken to improve elder-driving safety. First, performing exercises and playing games that challenge the mind may help maintain reasoning skills and lessen reaction times.
Also, senior drivers may feel safer by changing their driving practices. Driving only during daylight hours is an option for people with vision trouble in reduced light. Older drivers may feel more comfortable avoiding fast-moving traffic on freeways by taking side roads instead. In addition, planning routes in advance and not driving in bad weather may reduce the risk of accidents for elder-drivers.
If you or an older relative has been injured in an auto accident, contact an experienced car accident lawyer in your area to discuss any legal claims you may have.
