How Common Are Accidents Caused by Elderly Drivers? | Riverview, FL Car Accident Lawyer

The state of Florida has the largest elderly population in the United States, with 18 percent of its population being 65 years of age or older. And while elderly drivers undoubtedly have more experience behind the wheel, their developed medical conditions that come with age may just increase their chances of being involved in an accident. Read on to discover how common accidents caused by elderly drivers are and how a seasoned Riverview, Florida car accident lawyer at The Frank Santini Law Firm can help you through your situation.

What Florida laws are in place for elderly drivers?

Notably, the state of Florida has special laws in place for elderly drivers to promote better safety on the roads. For example, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) requires that drivers who are 80 years of age or older pass a vision test conducted by a medical professional. If they pass, they may submit the Mature Driver Vision Test form. And if they do not pass, they may be referred to an eye specialist, and soon they may submit the Report of Eye Exam Form.

Additional examples of requirements that the DHSMV has in place for elderly drivers include the following:

• An older driver must have an additional left-side rearview mirror on their vehicle.
• An older driver must have an automatic transmission.
• An older driver must have power steering.
• An older driver must have mechanical directional signals.
• An older driver must have a knob or drip on their steering wheel.
• An older driver must have hand controls or pedal extensions.
• An older driver must have seat cushions.
• An older driver must wear hearing aids while driving.
• An older driver cannot drive at nighttime.

Why are accidents commonly caused by elderly drivers?

Typically, an elderly driver’s impaired hearing, vision loss, heart failure, or otherwise medical condition affects their ability to drive safely at all times. With that being said, an elderly driver may be at fault for a car accident for any of the following reasons:

• They were driving well below or well above the speed limit.
• They were making unexpected lane changes or could not maintain their lane.
• They were not checking their surroundings before changing directions, proceeding through an intersection, etc.
• They were not yielding or stopping on time.
• They were unable to see traffic signs or signals.

How should I handle my accident caused by an elderly driver?

Importantly, it should be noted that car accidents can be caused by any age group, not just elderly drivers. So, regardless of who the at-fault party is, you may pursue legal action and file a personal injury claim.

Rest assured, a competent Riverview personal injury lawyer will help you gather evidence, file your claim, and overall recover your damages. So pick up the phone and give our firm a call today.