It is often assumed that older drivers in Summerlin and throughout Nevada are among the most dangerous demographics on the highways. The numbers show that senior motorists are in more accidents than other age groups with the exception of young, inexperienced drivers, but those numbers could be misleading to a certain extent. The percentage of the population that is senior has grown over the past two decades as the average age of the population has increased. That tends to skew the numbers, and there are also other factors to take into consideration.
Declining abilities as drivers age
One general condition that exists in the senior population is the decline of physical and mental abilities as people age. This is a fact of life for most, but reductions in ability vary widely among individuals. While many drivers have unique medical issues, the most common problems include:
- Failing vision
- Memory capacity
- Physical strength
- Reaction time
- Flexibility
The numbers are actually reducing
While it is true that there are more senior drivers on the road than ever before, one of the most positive statistics is the lower number of fatalities among these motorists . According to statistics compiled regarding motor vehicle accidents involving older drivers, there has been a significant reduction in fatalities through the past two decades with a 15% reduction between 1997 and 2018. Even further, there have been 70% fewer fatal accidents involving those over 70 since 1975. Some of this elimination of fatalities is attributable to much better safety features on modern vehicles, including automatic braking systems that help those with reduced flexibility in the lower extremities.
Another statistic that should not go without mentioning is the much lower percentage of impaired driving among seniors involved in auto accidents. Most vehicular accident attorneys in Nevada know very well that impaired driving is a major factor in many fatal accidents, but the incidence among seniors is lower than that found in other demographics.
If you have sustained injuries in a traffic accident, you should be aware that Nevada has a statute of limitations. However, if the incident occurred in the last two years you could be eligible for compensation.