AAA: 90 Percent of Seniors Fail to Make Vehicle Adjustments to Improve Safety
AAA: 90 Percent of Seniors Fail to Make Vehicle Adjustments to Improve Safety
Posted on behalf of Arnold Law Firm
on December 20, 2017 in Auto Accident Updated on February 24, 2022
Senior citizens can make simple, inexpensive modifications to their cars to help them overcome aging-related visual and physical impairments that can increase their risk of an accident. Unfortunately, the majority of seniors are failing to make these changes, according to a study released by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
The study found that almost 90 percent of drivers 65 years old or older do not make modifications to their cars that could help keep them safe and allow them to drive for longer.
Senior drivers are more than twice as likely as younger drivers to die in a car crash. Seniors are also the fastest-growing segment of drivers – they are expected to make up more than 25 percent of all drivers by 2025, according to AAA.
Types of Vehicle Adjustments
For the study, AAA researchers surveyed older drivers to determine if they used vehicle adaptations that could improve safety, including:
Seat belt extensions – Extensions make seat belts longer, helping older drivers who have decreased strength or limited mobility with fastening their seat belt.
Steering wheel modification – A variety of steering wheel modifications can make it easier for drivers to operate a car. For instance, drivers can install a knob that allows them to steer with one hand. Another modification reduces the strength required to turn the steering wheel.
Driver seat cushions – A cushion helps raise drivers in their seats and improve posture so they have a better view of the road. Cushions can also make the driver’s seat more comfortable.
Hand controls – A hand control is essentially a lever that allows the driver to operate the brake and accelerator with a hand rather than his or her feet. Some drivers’ lack of leg strength makes it difficult to switch between the brake and accelerator with their feet.
Left-foot throttle – A left-foot throttle is a modification to the accelerator that allows a driver with an impairment in his or her right leg to operate the accelerator safely.
Pedal extension – A pedal extension or gas-pedal block attaches to the accelerator or brake pedal to bring it closer to the driver’s feet, allowing drivers to reach it from higher up.
Push-button ignition – Drivers who suffer from arthritis may find it challenging to turn the key to start the car. Installing a push-button ignition allows the driver to start the car at the touch of a button.
Custom armrests – Customized armrests provide improved support and comfort for drivers.
Convex/multifaceted mirrors – A convex or multifaceted mirror can increase the driver’s field of vision and possibly eliminate blind spots.
Upper body support – The elderly often have back or shoulder problems that can compromise posture behind the wheel. A variety of cushions and other supports can make it easier for older drivers to sit up straight.
Modified secondary controls – Secondary controls can also be modified, allowing easier access to the windshield wipers, turn signals, cruise control, headlights and horn.
Unfortunately, researchers discovered many seniors have not installed these helpful modifications on their cars, even though more than 70 percent of those surveyed for this study had health conditions that would benefit from assistance, including arthritis, joint pain, and hip or knee replacements.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney
Have you been injured in an accident caused by a negligent driver?
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a Sacramento car accident, you may be able to obtain compensation for damages. Contact a Sacramento car accident lawyer at the Arnold Law Firm for a free consultation to determine your legal options.
A personal injury attorney from our firm can manage every aspect of your claim, including investigating and negotiating the compensation you deserve. We will not charge unless you receive compensation.
I would highly recommend Arnold Law Firm, especially George Chryssafis. He did an excellent job.
Working with Jesus in Arnold Law Firm was amazing. He always gave me the best advice in every step throughout my claim and did his best to get me the best most possible outcome asap. They were very patient with me and even gave me a farewell gift bag. Highly recommend :)
Mr. Dominic Sandoval was excellent in helping us with our case. Overall we had a great experience with this company and would highly recommend it to family and friends.
If you are searching for an Excellent Law Firm that is Outstanding and will take care of your case in a Professional and timely manner then I would highly recommend Arnold and Arnold Law Firm. The entire staff and case managers are Amazing! Thank you Stephanie and Laura you two are a great asset to the team! They were kind, knowledgeable and supportive. They started on my case immediately worked very efficiently and kept me in the loop every step of the way!
Thank you again Arnold and Arnold for smoothly and successfully handling my case with your Amazing Team!
I really love that law firm. They were on their job. They took care of me very well, and I highly recommend that law firm for any of your doings. I just wanna thank Josh and his crew for helping me all that they have. Done for me and my family.