There has been some discussion recently about putting an upper age limit for seniors driving cars. There is currently no such age threshold for driving in Colorado; however, some experts, like Dr. Emmy Betz, a University of Colorado School of Medicine Researcher, suggest that some seniors should plan for a “driving retirement”.
“Retirement is something that happens to all of us, right? And maybe we even look forward to it,” Betz told Colorado Public Radio. “You prepare for it, you make financial plans, you think about what you’re going to do.”
While there is no driving age limit for Colorado, there is a test to determine if a driver is functional behind the wheel. This test can be recommended by the DMV, a doctor, a police officer or a concerned family member.
Most Coloradoans are healthy and hardy, typically driving well past their 60s. With life expectancy and health rates increasing, the current and future population is expected to push up our average length of life even higher. In fact, AAA states that 86 percent of people 65 and older are drivers and 68 percent of elderly individuals over 85 are still driving at least 5 days a week.
In the event of car crashes involving older drivers, usually those who are at most risk are the senior driver and their passengers. Moreover, senior drivers are at a greater risk of crash fatality, largely because their bodies do not heal as easily or quickly.
As the senior population continues to grow, our communities are being faced with an issue: seniors who shouldn’t drive unfortunately lack reliable transportation alternatives. Some seniors are being forced to drive when they probably shouldn’t because there isn’t a sufficient transportation option that can reliably help seniors get to where they need.
There are many reasons why a senior behind the wheel can contribute to a vehicle crash—poor eyesight, diminished reflexes, medical problem, etc. Just like with any other car accident, there is the chance that someone can be injured due to negligence by the at-fault driver.
If you’ve been injured in an auto collision and need legal help in seeking just compensation, contact The Babcock Law Firm and car accident attorney R. Mack Babcock for a free consultation. You can also find information about vehicle crashes and other personal injury disputes in Colorado on our blog and knowledge center.