Because they have considerable experience behind the wheel, senior citizens are relatively safe drivers. According to the American Automobile Association, the demographic as a whole observes speed limits, avoids driving while impaired, and wears safety restraints.
Unfortunately, despite their safe driving habits, older motorists are more likely than younger drivers to sustain serious or fatal injuries in collisions because of their relative frailty. They also become more likely to cause traffic crashes over time because of the natural physical and cognitive declines that accompany aging. For example, senior drivers may suffer from:
- Reduced flexibility;
- A limited range of motion; and
- Weakened muscles.
Additionally, they may eventually have slower reaction times, forget familiar routes, and struggle to focus on the road around them. Since 25 percent of people between 65 and 69 years old—and 46 percent of those between 70 and 79 years old—take at least five prescription drugs, drowsy driving is also a serious concern among older motorists.
If you were hurt in a collision with someone who should not have been on the road, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. To determine if you have grounds for a claim, contact the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr.
George R. Fusner Jr. has 40 years of experience as a practicing attorney. Call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free case evaluation with a car wreck lawyer in Nashville.
How to Protect Aging Loved Ones from Car Collisions
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more senior citizens take to the roads every decade. For example, in 2015, there were 40 million licensed seniors, which represents a 50 percent increase in the number of older drivers in 1999.
Although millions of seniors are entirely capable of maneuvering a vehicle in traffic, the risk of dying in an accident increases with age; however, acknowledging your own limitations can be challenging. As a result, it is often up to family members to determine when an aging loved one should no longer be driving. You can protect your relatives from serious collisions by:
- Tracking All Doctor’s Appointments
When was the last time your loved one had an eye exam? What about a general wellness visit? Make sure he or she sees all essential providers as recommended to ensure optimum health and safety.
- Reviewing All Medications
Research the side effects of any medication that your relative takes. Look for issues that might pose a risk to safety while behind the wheel, like drowsiness, and share this information with your loved one as soon as possible.
- Staying Active Together
Partaking in some gentle exercise on a daily basis can help senior citizens maintain their mobility and flexibility. It is essential to have a full range of motion when driving in order to check blind spots and scan your surroundings. Take your loved one on easy hikes or to water aerobics classes so you can spend quality time together while improving your health.
Sadly, not all individuals stay on top of their health or driving skills as they age. If you sustained injuries in a crash that another driver caused, contact the Law Office of George R. Fusner Jr.
Call 615-251-0005 or 800-427-8960 to schedule a free consultation with a car wreck attorney in Nashville. You can learn more about collision claims in Tennessee by visiting USAttorneys.com.
