Elderly Car Crash Deaths Drop

A recent study performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found that elderly drivers (70+) are safer than they were a decade ago.

The study revealed the following:

• Between 1997 and 2006, fatalities fell 21% despite a 10% rise in the number of those in the age group.
• The study also shows that more and more elderly individuals 70+ driving has risen from 18 million in 1997 to more than 20 million by 2006.
• The miles traveled by those over 70 increased by 29%.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the 70+ age group is the fastest growing bracket in the country. Approximately 37 million Americans are aged 65 and up.

Researchers note a number of factors that may have contributed to the decrease in fatalities. A healthier lifestyle, safer cars and roadways, and driving patterns were all mentioned as possible factors for the drop in deaths.

Previous data had shown an increasing risk of death for the elderly getting behind the wheel. Current data included all fatal crashes on public roads that resulted in the death of a driver or a passenger within 30 days of an accident.

PKSD is a Wisconsin personal injury law firm handling cases through out the state.  Our Milwaukee personal injury lawyers have successfully represented injured people in almost every county. We know Wisconsin.