Older Drivers and Safety: Know the Risks

Older drivers have a higher chance of being in an accident. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says that this age group has the second-highest number of fatal crashes based on miles driven, after young drivers.

The risks are very evident. How do you keep drivers safe on the road? Insurance provides an important role in protecting these drivers from loss. However, that is not the only step drivers need to take.

Know the Risks

Education is key. Inform older drivers of the risks. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Older drivers are less likely to survive car accidents than other drivers.
• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says 6,165 people over the age of 65 died in traffic accidents in the United States in 2015.
• The number of older drivers killed accounts for 18 percent of all drivers killed on the road.
• The same report indicates 240,000 older Americans got hurt in crashes that same year.

Sometimes, the best way to help drivers know the risks is to show them the facts. Drivers who are older are at a higher risk for many reasons. Most commonly, they are frailer. In other cases, poor vision, less ability to react, and poor defensive driving skills play a role in it.

Review Insurance Coverage

Because of this increased risk, older consumers should review car insurance carefully. It is important to consider a driver's recent claims. Has the driver filed numerous claims over the last 12 months? Is there a pattern of increasing moving violations? This may indicate that a driver needs to take a defensive driving course. It can also help to consider driving less frequently.

Increase auto insurance to match these increasing risks. If an older person is likely to drive more often, having adequate car insurance becomes essential to providing financial protection. Review policies on an annual basis. Ensure they adequately represent needs.

Recognize the Risks and Take Action

Realize that driving at an older age is a high risk. Work with doctors to determine if driving is still safe. If so, improve your ability to react faster. And, be sure you maintain a safe vehicle. These steps can help protect drivers even as they age. Some drivers may decide to stop driving altogether. This is a very tough decision, but at times it is for the best.

Keep in mind that every driver's needs are different. However, all need to maintain a high-quality, comprehensive car insurance plan.

Need auto insurance? Call All About Insurance at Mid-Cities 817-589-0006, Fort Worth 817-626-3339 or Mansfield/Arlington Ofc at 817-453-5524 right now. We've got your needs in mind and can help you get an affordable car insurance quote.

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