Older drivers and fatal motor vehicle crashes

Abstract

Historically, fatal motor vehicle crashes have not been an issue pertinent to older drivers. However, demographic trends are changing this reality. Yet, it is unclear how many older drivers will be involved in fatal crashed in coming years, what type of driving errors they commit, the situations in which they are more at risk to commit these errors, and what may protect them against fatal injuries in the event of a crash.

Data from every incident involving a U.S. traffic-related fatality from 1975 to 1998 were analyzed, confirming that while older adults (65+) accounted for 10% of all fatalities in 1975, this proportion may increase to 27% by year 2015.

The most frequent driving errors made by older drivers regarded road signs and warnings, and traveling off the lane or road. Compared to drivers aged 40 to 49, drivers aged 80+ were eight times more at risk to make errors involving road signs/warnings, six times more at risk to make errors entering/exiting traffic, and seven times more at risk to commit driving errors at junctions, where more than half of all crashes occurred.

Blood alcohol concentration, prior traffic crashes, license suspensions, convictions, and drug/medication use were related to a higher risk of driving errors. A higher number of passengers was associated with few driving errors among drivers aged 65+.

In the event of a crash, drivers aged 80+ were five times more at risk to be fatally injured than drivers aged 40 to 49. High blood alcohol concentrations, higher speeds, and smaller, recent vehicles were associated with higher risks of fatality. Seat belts were associated with a 50% reduction in the fatality risk.

Current preventive strategies need to be re-evaluated. Interventions for older drivers should focus on road signs/warnings and intersections, both of which were associated with a large proportion of driving errors by older drivers. Societal changes are imperative to maintain the independence afforded to older adults by the automobile, while reducing the risk of traffic-related fatalities.