What Factors Contribute To An Older Adult’s Safety Behind The Wheel?

After facing serious damages in a motor vehicle accident, you may be looking for answers. If your accident involved an older driver, he or she may be at fault.

When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, there are various factors that may increase a person’s likelihood of causing an accident. According to the NHTSA, 20% of all accident fatalities involved adults over the age of 65.

Aging factors that impact driving

As a person ages, he or she goes through a variety of physical changes. For instance, you may notice changes in your vision or your physical fitness. Your reflexes may not be the way they used to be. When an older adult notices that his or her vision changes, glasses or other aids may be necessary. A driver should always fit in his or her vehicle without trouble. If an older adult does not have adaptive devices to ensure his or her safety, it may count as negligence.

Medical conditions that impact driving

Older drivers tend to have more medical conditions than their younger counterparts. Some of these illnesses can affect a driver’s coordination and cognitive function. If you suffered injuries in an accident with an older driver, he or she may suffer from any of the following:

• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Diabetes
• Cataracts
• Glaucoma
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Arthritis

Older adults or their caregivers should note any warning signs and help the adult adapt to driving or find other forms of transportation.

No one should wait until an older adult’s driving becomes dangerous to speak to him or her about safety.