Elder drivers are keeping their driver’s licenses longer than before. Senior drivers represent a growing part of Florida’s licensed drivers. They also have a higher chance of experiencing traffic-related injuries and deaths. In 2019, Florida, with 673 fatalities, had the highest number of deaths among elder drivers.
The Risk of Motor Vehicle Accidents and Fatalities Increase with Age
This elevated risk is due to their proneness to injuries instead of their higher risk of getting into accidents. Elder drivers typically face impairments in the following functions that impact their driving abilities:
Cognitive Function
Driving necessitates various high-level cognitive abilities. But, certain medical conditions and medications older individuals often use can impact their cognitive abilities.
Vision
Having enough of a field of vision and visual acuity is crucial for safe driving. Yet, these abilities decline with age. Increased time, contrast sensitivity, and glare required for adjusting to sudden changes in light levels are issues typically experienced by elder drivers.
Motor Skills
You need motor abilities for turning when viewing traffic and operating vehicle controls. Even before driving, you need these skills to enter the vehicle and fasten your seat belt. Specific changes linked with aging and conditions like arthritis can reduce an elder driver’s motor abilities and affect their ability to drive safely.
Age-related changes in cognition, vision and physical strength can contribute to an elder driver’s loss of confidence in their ability to drive a vehicle. But many elder drivers equate losing their driver’s license to losing their personal freedom. When faced with this difficult choice, some elder drivers risk injury rather than stop driving.
Florida Requirements for Elder Drivers
Drivers aged 79 and below must renew their Class E driver’s license every eight years. Those aged 80 must renew their licenses every six years. Drivers 80 years old and above must also pass a vision exam. Once they pass this exam, they must complete and submit the form titled Mature Driver Vision Test.
If the vision exam reveals a medical condition that warrants a referral to a vision specialist, then the elder driver must complete and submit the FLHSMV Report of Eye Exam form.
Reach Out to Our Tampa Elder Driving Accident Lawyers Today
Were you hurt in a motor vehicle accident involving an elder driver? Or, has a family member who is an elder driver suffered injuries in a traffic crash? If so, then you can count on the Tampa elder driving accident lawyers of Hancock Injury Attorneys.
We know how sensitive cases involving elder drivers can be. Moreover, we have experience navigating these personal injury claims.
To discuss your case with one of our Tampa elder driving accident lawyers, call 813-915-1110 or send us a message online today.