Improved Road Signs Help Older Drivers

According to a recent study by TRIP, a national transportation research group, motorists who are aged 65 or older are at an increased risk of being fatally injured in a car accident. To make roads safer for older drivers, safety officials are urging states to make changes that will address the specific challenges that these motorists face, including diminished eyesight and reduced reflexes. The study reveals that the fatality rate of older drivers is increasing faster than other drivers.

Researchers from TRIP suggest creating road signs that are larger and have brighter lights, making it easier for older drivers to see. Additional roundabouts and longer entrance and exit lanes will help all drivers, but particularly those whose reflexes are not as sharp as they once were. Older drivers who have diminished eyesight may not be able to estimate the speed and distance of other vehicles in the vicinity, which can have an impact on their driving decisions. According to the Director of Policy and Research for TRIP, Americans are living longer due to healthy and active lifestyles, but this also means that more older drivers are involved in fatal car accidents.

Study Overview

The study shows that the number of drivers aged 65 or older increased by approximately 16 percent from 2012 to 2016 in the United States. The number of older drivers fatally injured, however, increased by roughly 21 percent due in part to the fact that they are not as healthy as younger drivers.

Improving road signs, lighting, and other ambiguous traffic designs can help all drivers, but older drivers will benefit from these changes even more than younger drivers. Since fatal wrecks involving older drivers occurred during the day and throughout the week, it makes sense to make changes as soon as possible in order to provide safe roadways for all motorists. In addition to improving safety, these are cost-effective changes as well.

Because older drivers have a harder time estimating the speed of oncoming vehicles, they often have a difficult time deciding when to switch lanes in traffic or making a left turn at a busy intersection. According to the study, the chances of getting into an accident involving a left turn increases by eight percent each year after age 65. Larger signs, rumble strips, and upgrading pavement markings are possible solutions to improving road safety for older drivers.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Represent Car Accident Victims

If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a car accident due to another person’s negligence or poor road design, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. We are committed to protecting your rights and will work tirelessly to determine who is responsible for your injuries. Our dedicated team will fight to secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve and ensure that your legal rights are protected. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, allowing us to represent car accident victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.