The Top 7 Reasons for Car Accidents in the Elderly

Thousands of car accidents happen every day, yet statistics prove they’re more common when an older person sits behind the wheel.

Often, several factors combine to increase the risk of accidents for the older set. This can lead to additional concerns, such as the need for coverage for ambulance rides after an accident. With this in mind, we’re providing an overview of why older people get involved in car accidents.

Researchers keep a regular pulse on accident demographics in the interest of traffic safety. Recent data shows that accidents involving older drivers are high, and the number of incidents is increasing. The baby boomer generation is the second-largest generation in the United States (millennials surpassed them as the largest population in 2019), so many older drivers are on the road. Most boomers are in the retirement phase of life, and the younger ones will join them in the next few years.

Here’s what we can glean from the most current research:

• Drivers aged 65 and older were the second-highest demographic to be involved in car accidents, with fatalities (drivers under 20 were the highest). (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
• Car accidents involving older drivers increased by 5% in 2022.
• From 2012 to 2022, the number of deaths from car accidents increased by 42%, while the older adult population increased by 29%. (National Safety Council)

From a biological perspective, our bodies sustain molecular and cellular damage over the years. The damage leads to a gradual decrease in our physical and mental capabilities. Any of the factors described below can be responsible for a car accident involving an older driver. Multiple factors occurring at the same time significantly increase the risks. Many factors are involved when someone gets into an accident, so we’re highlighting the 7 most common reasons for accidents with older drivers.

Physical changes

Weaker muscles and arthritis can lead to decreased flexibility and a limited range of motion. Our eyesight also tends to worsen with age. Older people are at a greater risk of glaucoma or cataracts and may have increased difficulty driving at night.

Cognitive changes

According to the Alzheimer’s Society, aging is the most significant risk factor for dementia. Two in every 100 people have some form of dementia. Unclear thinking can cause older drivers to become confused or overwhelmed by road signs and traffic conditions. They may even get lost on roads that are familiar to them.

Side effects from medications

According to the pharmaceutical company Merck, about 90% of older adults take at least one prescription drug. Many older adults take two or more prescription medications regularly. While medications help older adults enjoy quality of life, the side effects can cause drivers to become impaired or drowsy.

Lack of confidence

The decrease in physical and mental functionalities can make it more challenging for older adults to control their vehicles, causing a lack of confidence in their driving decisions. Drivers may brake unexpectedly, tailgate, and fail to observe their surroundings.

Distracted driving

Much like younger drivers, older drivers may be distracted by cell phone or radio noises. Older drivers may also be less familiar with safety equipment on newer models of cars than younger drivers.

Delayed reflexes

A diminished physical ability may cause older drivers to delay braking in the presence of animals or pedestrians. They may have difficulty navigating traffic with bicyclists and motorcyclists. Delayed thinking may also cause drivers to fail to make timely decisions, such as whether to yield the right of way, stop at red lights or stop signs, or properly pass or change lanes.

Driving too slowly

Some older drivers may err on the side of caution by driving slowly. They may not realize that driving too slowly confuses and frustrates other drivers and interrupts the flow of traffic.

Strategies for Safe Driving After Age 65

Retired people tend to stay home more, causing their driving habits to become rusty. AARP offers a mature driving course called 55 Alive to help refresh older drivers’ skills. Any driver over the age of 55 can take the course, and some auto insurance companies offer a safe driving discount for taking it.

Older drivers who cannot safely operate a vehicle may consider alternate forms of transportation, such as public transportation, ride-sharing, or help from family members.

The Clearinghouse for Older Road User Safety (CHORUS) has a website that offers informative articles, state-specific information, and other resources for older drivers and their caregivers.

For almost every driver, there comes a time when it becomes challenging to balance independence with safety. Unfortunately, not all older drivers know that their health negatively affects their driving ability. Family members can often intervene when they realize a loved one’s driving habits are becoming too risky for the driver and others.