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Sixteen advanced vehicle technologies were examined by the AAA (American Automobile Association) researchers to determine which could provide the highest value for senior drivers by potentially reducing crashes and improving ease and comfort when driving. The following three were at the top of the AAA list: 

1. Forward collision warning/mitigation: These systems can help prevent crashes by warning drivers of a potential collision or by automatically applying the brakes. 

2. Automatic crash notification: These systems automatically alert emergency services in the event of a crash.  

3. Park assist with rearview display: This technology includes backup cameras and obstacle-detection warning systems, which can help prevent crashes when pulling out of a parking space.  

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) published data shows a record-high 214.3 million licensed drivers in the U.S. includes 95.9 million aged 50 or older.

In 2014, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), more than 5,700 older adults were killed and more than 236,000 were treated in emergency departments for motor vehicle crash injuries. Every day this amounts to 16 older adults killed and 648 injured in crashes.

Who is most at risk? 

The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) reports that, “Involvement in fatal crashes, per mile traveled, begins increasing among drivers who are age 70‒74 and are highest among drivers ages 85 and older. This trend has been attributed more to an increased susceptibility to injury and medical complications among older drivers rather than an increased risk of crash involvement.” 

When considering all age groups, males have substantially higher death rates than females. Age-related declines in vision and cognitive functioning (ability to reason and remember), as well as physical changes, may affect some older adults' driving abilities, according to AAA. 

As drivers age, there is a greater likelihood that they will have at least one medical condition that could affect the ability to drive safely. Some, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease, may require drivers to relinquish their licenses, while other diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and sleep apnea, still allow seniors to drive, but may require a doctor’s intervention to keep senior drivers safe. 

In addition to technological advances, seniors may consider driver safety programs to improve their safety by addressing cognitive abilities and skills. AARP, the AAA, and the National Safety Council each offer such courses. Another option is to work on improving your driving skills with a driving instructor or vision rehabilitation specialist, according to Johns Hopkins Health Alerts. 

Here are nine steps from the CDC for seniors to stay safe on the roadways: 

1. Exercising regularly to increase strength and flexibility.
2. Asking your doctor or pharmacist to review medicines, both prescription and over-the counter, to reduce side effects and interactions.
3. Having eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year. Wear glasses and corrective lenses as required.
4. Driving during daylight and in good weather.
5. Finding the safest route with well-lit streets, intersections with left turn arrows, and easy parking.
6. Planning your route before you drive.
7. Leaving a large following distance behind the car in front of you.
8. Avoiding distractions in your car, such as listening to a loud radio, talking on your cell phone, texting, and eating.
9. Considering potential alternatives to driving, such as riding with a friend or using public transit, which you can use to get around. 

Fort Myers personal injury lawyer, Randall Spivey says, “If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the negligence of another, contact the experienced attorneys at Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. to determine your rights.”

Fort Myers Car Accident Attorney, Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by less than 2 percent of Florida attorneys. He has handled over 1,500 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida. For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at  239. 337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com  for more information. You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County 239.793.7748.