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Are Senior Citizens as Dangerous on the Road as We Think They Are

There have been several reports looking into the issue of senior citizens behind the wheel.  The common conception is that they are unsafe but recent findings are showing that is not necessarily the case.  In a report by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that even though the number of drivers over 70 has increased fewer drivers 70 and older have been involved, injured or died in crashes from 1997 to 2006. 

There are several reasons for this decline.  More senior drivers have the tendency to limit their driving.  They will no longer drive at night or in inclement weather.  Their trips tend to be shorter and less frequent.  They generally will to avoid complicated intersections, like left hand turns against traffic.  Another reason for the decrease in senior fatalities is older people tend to be in better health, both physically and mentally, than in years ago. 

Other trends that have made the roads safer for all is the use of seatbelts has increased, cars are manufactured with many safety features and the increasing number of left hand turn lanes.  These lanes take judging speed and distance out of the equation.  According to the IIHS the use of roundabouts are favorable as they control speed and prevent head-on accidents. 

There are programs available to seniors that are offered by such organizations as AAA.  AAA offers a self-rating form for seniors drivers.  AARP also offers a driver safety program for drivers over the age of 50.  A benefit to completing this program is a person upon colpletion can take their certificate of completion to their insurance agent and possibly receive a discount on their premium. 

With all of these programs and changes we can expect to see more and more seniors on the road.  Respect them as you would any other driver.

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