The age of drivers in Kentucky can range greatly. A motorist may be a freshly licensed 16-year-old or a well seasoned driver in their 90s. No matter the age of the driver, there is also a risk of a car accident each time they get behind the wheel. The level of that risk correlates with the age of the motorist and the age of the vehicle: The risk is greater the older the driver gets and the older the vehicle gets.
Car accidents and older drivers
While it may be cliché to state, elderly drivers are more prone to car accidents and suffering injuries in an accident. Based on current statistics, elderly motorists are more likely than any other age group to suffer serious and fatal injuries in motor vehicle accidents. While elderly individuals tend to be frailer than their younger counterparts, this is not the reason for concern. Studies have attributed this statistic to the vehicles this age group tends to drive.
Risks associated with older vehicles
Two recent studies have indicated that the higher rate of fatal crashes among elderly drivers is due in part to their tendency to drive older vehicles. Due to these vehicles lacking essential safety features, these motorists are more likely to suffer serious injuries.
In addition to not being equipped with current safety features, older vehicles are less likely to have Electronic Stability Control and side-curtain airbags. Both of these features are commonplace in today’s cars, and are credited with preventing spinouts and serious injuries.
The aftermath of a car accident can be tragic. It is important that victims of a crash understand not only what caused the crash but who might be liable for the accident. A personal injury claim could be a good step to take, as it can help hold a negligent driver accountable and assist with the recovery of compensation for the losses and damages suffered.
