Quality Legal Services For New Jersey’s Citizens

Data on older adults injured and killed in traffic crashes

On Behalf of | Jul 26, 2022 | Car Accidents

If you are over the age of 65, you could face a number of risks on a daily basis, from health-related concerns to slip-and-fall accidents and medication you take. However, it is important to understand the dangers you face on the road. When it comes to traffic collisions, many older adults are particularly vulnerable, and these accidents result in many injuries and fatalities every year.

Going over data on motor vehicle collisions involving older adults sheds light on the prevalence of these accidents and underlines the importance of focusing on road safety.

Statistics on traffic collisions involving older adults

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shared data on traffic crash injuries and deaths involving older adults (those 65 and over). Based on CDC data, nearly 200,000 older adults received treatment in emergency rooms for injuries sustained in motor vehicle collisions during 2020. Furthermore, statistics show that roughly 7,500 people 65 and over lost their lives in traffic accidents over the course of 2020.

Older adults and traffic accident prevention

The CDC states that during 2020, nearly 48 million older adults had a license to drive, an increase of 68% in comparison to 2000. As an older adult, you should focus on strategies to avoid a traffic accident, such as watching out for changes due to your age that could affect your memory, vision and driving abilities. Medication and certain diseases can also make a traffic accident more likely.

Sadly, even if you stay alert and drive safely, a negligent driver could cause you to become injured in a traffic accident, in which case you need to hold them accountable.