The Good News and Bad News About Older Drivers

One of the thorniest issues of aging has to do with when to take away a senior citizen's car keys. Most older drivers insist they are safe behind the wheel, and can be known to dig in their heels on the subject.

Just how safe are older drivers? The data suggest there's good news and bad news.

On the positive side, older drivers tend to be more cautious. They avoid risky behavior like speeding, passing dangerously, or driving after having a few drinks.

But researchers at the University of Granada, who analyzed the data, report drivers over the age of 60 have higher crash rates in non problematic operating environments, as in intersections, than drivers of other age groups.

In the last few decades, the data suggest a significant increase in crash rates for drivers aged over 60, according to researchers. However, and contrary to the general opinion, the study conducted by the University of Granada revealed that crash rates for this age group are lower that that for younger drivers aged 20.

Two out of 10 keep driving

Researchers note "24.8 percent of drivers aged over 74 years keep driving", and they say although accident rates are lower for elderly drivers, "when they are involved in a car crash, the injuries they suffer are more serious than that of middle-aged or of young drivers'".

"Age does not seem to be a contributing factor in fatal accidents," said David Canton, one of the researchers on the project.

Additionally, a number of studies have found there is a relationship between keeping your driving privileges and having higher satisfaction rates in the old age. In other words, old people are happier when they keep driving, since it boosts their self-esteem.

Previous study

The findings run counter to a 2010 Kansas State study that found most car accidents involving older drivers occur during the daytime and are more severe, often ending in injury or fatality, than those for younger populations.

As research on this topic continues, no question is more likely to ignite more debate among seniors as "how old is too old to drive," with many pointing out that competence behind the wheel, not age, should be the determining factor.

Meanwhile, here are some questions driving experts recommend asking older motorists to determine if they are still road-worthy:

• Do other drivers often honk at me?
• Have I had some accidents?
• Do I get lost, even on roads I know?
• Do cars or pedestrians seem to appear out of nowhere?
• Have passengers in my car told me they are worried about my driving?
• Am I driving less because I am unsure about my driving skills?