AARP Eye Center
News To Know: Older Driver Truth vs. Fiction
By Dave Goldstein, February 26, 2009 10:46 AM
There is a certain perception common amongst Americans. For some reason older drivers are labeled negatively and viewed as less safe than drivers of other age groups. While there are some physical changes that can make driving a bit more difficult, the facts simply don't show that older drivers pose a greater danger than others.
Case in point, the AAA has gathered statistics showing that older drivers:
Kill fewer motorists and pedestrians than any other age group;
Have the lowest crash rate per driver;
Have the lowest rate of crashes involving alcohol;
Use seatbelts the most.
Just goes to show you that when it comes to older drivers, you can't rely on perceptions.