NTSB Meets Amid Concerns that US Drivers are Aging | Legal News | News Ticker

Most people are aware of the fact that the population of the United States is collectively aging as the Baby Boomers begin to move into their senior years. While this will create certain new realities, one concern that’s beginning to arise involves the number of elderly drivers who will be on the roads in the coming years. In response to this issue, the National Transportation Safety Board, or NTSB, has convened a two-day meeting to discuss how to deal with this situation before serious problems arise.

According to available statistics, there are currently 30 million drivers in the United States who are 65 or older. Within 15 years, that number will nearly double to 57 million as the Baby Boomers begin to grow older. In addition, studies have shown that men usually outlive their ability to safely drive by an average of six years, while women outlive their ability to drive effectively for an average of 10 years. In addition, drivers who are 85 or older have a motorist fatality rate that’s higher than teen-aged drivers and drivers in their early 20’s.

The hope for this NTSB conference is to come up with strategies to help curb what could become a serious problem as people face dangers on the road at an advanced age. This could turn out to be a particularly troublesome issue for residents of Arizona, as the state is home to a growing population of retired people who want to take advantage of the warm climate and the relaxed lifestyle that the state offers. Combining a high number of older drivers with younger motorists could lead to ongoing safety concerns.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by a driver of any age, you need to take action to enforce your legal rights, as drivers of any age are liable for the harm they cause. Seek the help of Arizona car accident lawyers who have been successfully fighting for the rights of those harmed on the roads for many years. Contact Phillips Law Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.