Can Seniors Use Simple Car Accessories to Drive Much Safer?
For a whole generation of Americans, the older they get, the more difficult life can become on so many levels. Mobility and eyesight can decrease, as well as coordination, which can virtually make driving next to impossible. Although a percentage of seniors around 70 years of age do not currently operate vehicles, the fact of the matter is that older people are still putting themselves at risk behind the wheel. Without proper vision or awareness, tragic accidents that result in their deaths and the deaths of other innocent people can occur.
However, is it possible that car accessories (ridiculously cheap ones, at that) could help senior drivers operate vehicles safely and more efficiently? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information.
The Complicated Issue of Senior Drivers
In contrast to their counterparts in the 20 to 69-year-old age group, many people who are 70 years and older do not have driver’s licenses, or (if they do) they do not drive their vehicles for long distances (as the National Household Travel Survey confirms). So, if that is the case, why are seniors posing a strong risk to themselves and others on the roadways of the U.S.?
Based on reports from the U.S. Census Bureau, the 70+ years age range will skyrocket to 53 million people at the turn of 2030, which means more seniors will be driving cars than before. Keeping this information in mind, officials are worried that these people will be potential road hazards.
Not Much of a Problem, after All
Despite this increase in numbers and the poor or declining health of many of these seniors, the fact of the matter is that the rate of accidents involving seniors is plummeting. In 2017 alone, 4,974 people over the age of 70 died in car accidents, a stark 15% decline from the numbers in 1997.
Not Hard to Drive Safely
These forthcomings might not be promising, but that doesn’t mean seniors have to relent. Many men and women who are 70 years or older live happy and healthy lives and drive as well as they did when they were younger. Furthermore, as representatives of the Mayo Clinic point out, senior drivers can follow these steps to ensure they are safe and sound on the road:
- Physical fitness
- Routine ear and eye checkups
- Management of chronic health issues
- Setting limits
- Periodic driving
- Dropping the cell phone
- Education about new road rules
Tools of the Trade for the Senior Driver
So, how can seniors use cheap car accessories to help them drive safely (and to protect other people from falling victim to dangerous accidents)? Here are some tools (as shown on Medicaire.org) that could help older men and women operate a vehicle in a timely and secure manner:
- Panoramic rearview mirror: This clip-on mirror provides a 20/20 perspective on the roads and opens up blind spots. This tool is particularly essential for people who cannot move their necks very well.
- Reacher: This tool helps seniors fasten a seatbelt without struggling to grasp over their shoulder. Instead, the reacher is a long-handle that pulls the strap toward the driver.
- Seat cushion: Probably one of the most obvious tools is the seat cushion. These pillows offer a soft seat for people with orthopedic issues and also allows them to sit taller in the seat altogether.
- Backup cameras: Installed in many new models of vehicles (or available for purchase), these little cameras allow you to see what’s behind you (without turning your head).
Personal Injury Lawyer in Syracuse, New York
In the blink of an eye, a simple drive down the road or major highway can turn into a fight for your life (or the life of your loved one). Without warning, you and those you care about can become victims of deadly motor vehicle accidents and suffer from excruciating injuries like bone fractures, which can take a long time to heal and mend. As a result, you will have to reap the consequences, which can include hefty medical bills and an overloading cost of vehicle damages. Simply put, no one should have to suffer through these problems, particularly if the accident was triggered by negligence or malicious intentions.
Although this might be difficult, though, you must remain calm. With the assistance of a lawyer who is experienced with personal injury cases, you can gather viable resources to create a strong case in court.
We at Gattuso & Ciotoli, have more than 50 years of combined legal experience and deliver the some of the most high-quality legal services to victims of a wide variety of accidents in the vicinity of Syracuse, New York. We value your perspective on your case and your goals for the future and ready to help you receive the justice you deserve. For more information on our four practice areas or your legal matter, contact us at (315) 314-8000 today.