Older Driver Statistics

According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [hotlink to the national site], adults age 65 years and older are the fastest growing segment of the population in the United State.  The percentage of licensed older adults has jumped 19% between 1978 and 2008, while in that same time period, the total number of licensed drivers only increased 13% (Traffic Safety Facts. 2008). This means that we have increasing larger numbers and percentage of older drivers on the road than ever. 

Overall, older adults are safe drivers. With our increased life span, more older adults intend to drive into their 80’s and 90’s. While many will continue to be safe drivers, health conditions which impact the skills to be able to drive safely affect the older population at a much higher proportion, such as stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis. The additional issue is the fact when in an automobile collision, the older adult is usually at risk for greater injury due to increased frailty and does not recovery as quickly from injuries.