Accidents Claim Lives of Older Drivers in Record Numbers, Report Says

6 October 2000

ADVISORY/Accidents Claim Lives of Older Drivers in Record Numbers, Report Says

--Oct. 5, 2000--


TOPIC:	A study of government statistics released this week shows that though traffic deaths have declined overall in the last decade, the number of elderly motorists who died in traffic accidents hit record numbers, USA Today reports. According to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,934 drivers age 70 and older reportedly died in car crashes last year. The data shows a 33 percent increase since 1989, which reported the deaths of 3,719 elderly motorists. At the same time, overall fatalities dropped to 41,345 from 45,582 in 1989, a 9 percent decrease. Experts claim that one reason for the increase in fatalities is simply that older Americans are behind the wheel more often. Some experts also argue that roads were not designed with elderly drivers in mind -- signs are hard to read, lanes are narrow, and nearly half of elderly driver fatalities occur at intersections, the story says. The National Highway Safety Administration Board allegedly is expected to release new guidelines next year, which may help improve road conditions for older drivers.
EXPERTS:	ExpertSource can offer several highly qualified experts to comment on this story:

Ms. Kitty Miller is the media relations manager for Farmer's Insurance, the nation's third-largest insurer of homes and autos. Farmers Insurance Group has an extensive network of experts to answer your property and casualty insurance questions. Whether you're looking for news just for your state, or need a national perspective, Farmers' team of communications professionals have access to information about rates, claims, catastrophes, legislation and personal financial solutions.323/932-3662; Kitty_Miller@farmersinsurance.com

    Professor Steven Ruggles works at the University of Minnesota and is an expert in family structure and the elderly. 612/624-4081; 612/625-5000 (University PR Phone)

    Dr. John Scott is a nationally recognized expert in geriatric medicine. He developed an award-winning model of clinic group care, which provides extended services from a panel of specialists, nurses, pharmacists, and physical therapists for elderly patients with chronic conditions 510/271-5826; Laura Marshall, Media Relations Manager laura.h.marshall@kp.org

    Mr. Robert K. Seyfried works for the transportation engineering division at Northwestern University. His expertise include traffic control features, geometric design of highways and intersections, traffic signal design and operation, signs and pavement markings, traffic control in construction and maintenance work zones, and bicycle and pedestrian facility design and operation. 847/491-5040; 847/491-3741 (University PR Phone)