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BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — AAA Northeast is marking Older Driver Safety Awareness Week by urging families to have conversations about senior driver safety as fatal senior crashes reach an all-time high this century.
A new analysis of federal crash data revealed the number of senior drivers getting into deadly crashes across the country is at its highest point since at least 2000.
In 2022 in Massachusetts, there were most fatal crashes involving drivers aged 65 or older since at least 2002.
“Older drivers aren’t necessarily worse drivers than their younger counterparts,” said Mark Schieldrop, Senior Spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “In fact, AAA research shows that seniors are less likely to engage in risky behaviors behind the wheel. But they are at greater risk of being killed or seriously injured if a crash occurs.”
Across the nation in 2021, there were more than 8,000 fatalities involving drivers aged 65 or older.
AAA has complied some tips below to keep senior drivers safe:
- Review new technologies: Look over your car's manual or watch videos to keep up to date with new safety features like lane keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.
- Monitor your health: Make sure to have a conversation with your doctor about road safety based on your own medical problems like memory or eyesight issues.
- Adjust your driving habits when necessary: Find ways to drive that feel comfortable whether it's driving in the day time or avoiding highways.
- Wear your seatbelt
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