Older Driver? How To Reduce Bradenton Car Accident Risks

Serious car accident injuries in Bradenton can happen due to the negligence of other drivers. You may be entitled to compensation through the insurance companies involved, but you only have one chance to get what you are entitled to in a settlement. To get the maximum amount you need to recover in a claim, our Bradenton car accident lawyer recommends the following six strategies.

Factors That Increase Bradenton Car Accident Risks For Older Adults

The National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA) reports that older adults, which they define as being age 65 or older, represent nearly 20 percent of the population. That translates to an estimated 60 million people. Unfortunately, they also represent 20 percent of all car accident fatalities, which claim the lives of thousands of people each year.

There are plenty of misconceptions surrounding older drivers, particularly when it comes to safety, but years of experience tends to make them better drivers. It is often recklessness on the part of other motorists that causes a car accident in Bradenton to happen. However, there are age-related declines that can increase crash risks. These include:

• Reduced vision and greater problems with night blindness;
• Increased vertigo or dizziness;
• Slower response times;
• Increased distractions;
• Memory loss and other cognitive impairments;
• Impacts of medications, such as drowsiness;
• Overall decreased flexibility and coordination, making it harder to perform steering, braking, and other driving tasks.

How Older Adults Can Protect Themselves Against Car Accident Injuries In Bradenton 

Older Americans Month is held annually in May. Sponsored by the Administration for Community Living (ACL.gov), it highlights the many contributions older adults make while raising awareness of their challenges. Personal injuries pose a major threat to older adults in our community, and car accidents in Bradenton are one of the most common ways they happen.

Older adults can protect themselves by discussing their health condition and any medications they are taking with their family doctor. Be aware of the limitations you have and take the appropriate precautions, such as not driving at night. Use caution when dealing with other drivers on the road and avoid reckless behavior that increases personal injury risks. This includes:

• Going significantly above or under posted speeds;
• Not using turn signals or indicating when changing lanes;
• Suddenly slamming on the brakes;
• Failing to yield;
• Improper passing.

Be aware that under the Florida Statutes, even if you are partly responsible for a crash, you still have the right to hold other motorists accountable. To protect yourself, notify the police immediately and seek medical care as soon as possible, regardless of the severity of your injuries.

Contact Our Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer

Unfortunately, car accidents involving older adults in Bradenton are common. At the Law Office of Steven G. Lavely, we provide the trusted, local legal representation victims and their families need to get compensation for the harm they suffer. Call or contact us online to request a consultation with our Bradenton car accident lawyer today.

crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813341

acl.gov/oam/2024/older-americans-month-2024#:~:text=Every%20May%2C%20the%20Administration%20for,our%20health%20and%20well%2Dbeing.

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.81.html