How Senior Drivers Can Avoid Car Accidents
According to CDC estimates, senior divers in the U.S., aged 65 and above, were estimated to be over 45 million in 2018. Driving offers several benefits to senior citizens. For example, driving helps you stay independent and mobile. However, senior drivers are at a huge risk of being involved in car accidents. According to the CDC, in 2019, approximately 8,000 senior citizens aged 65 and over were killed in auto accidents, and over 250,000 seniors were booked in the E.R for crash injuries. If this is accurate, it means that over 20 senior citizens are killed, and nearly 700 are injured in crashes every day. Fortunately, there are several things that senior drivers can do to stay safe on the road and avoid accidents. Below are some of these things.
Staying Physically Active
Staying physically active helps improve strength and flexibility, and, in turn, that helps improve driver safety. For example, when your strength and flexibility improve, it means you will be able to turn the steering wheel much more easily. It also means that you can be able to make other crucial movements while driving.
Seeing Your Doctor Regularly
Everyone, including young drivers, should schedule regular hearing and vision tests. However, these tests are more critical for senior adults. This is because, as years go by, a person’s vision and hearing deteriorate. Fortunately, if your doctor notices a problem early, they can help you correct it. Also, your doctor can recommend timely adjustments that can help you reduce your risk of an accident. For example, if your eye doctor notices you have a problem that makes it hard for you to drive safely at night, they might recommend that you drive only during the day.
Driving When Roads Are in Good Condition
You can reduce your risk of being in a crash if you stick to driving when the roads are in good condition. If, for example, the weather is bad, you should consider delaying your trip or using public transportation.
Avoiding Distractions While Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of auto accidents, and the reality is that even senior citizens can get distracted behind the wheel. It is vital that you avoid your phone while driving. For example, avoid the habit of talking to friends on the phone while driving. It is also crucial that you avoid other distracted driving behaviors such as eating or drinking behind the wheel and reading a map while driving. Generally, when driving, you need to put your full concentration on the task of driving and avoid anything that takes your focus from the road.
Updating Your Driving Skills
As a senior driver, you should consider taking a refresher driving course. Updating your driving skills can help you be a better driver, and it can also earn you a discount on your car insurance (depending on your policy).
Legal Help Is Available
Are you a senior driver who was injured in a Florida auto accident because of another driver’s negligence? If so, it may be best for you to speak to one of our Miami personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm. We can help you protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Ocala, Tampa, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, and West Palm Beach areas.
Source:
cdc.gov/transportationsafety/older_adult_drivers/index.html
