Maison Law helps car accident victims in California. Facing a car accident is always difficult, no matter who’s involved. But sometimes, when you’re in an accident with an elderly driver, it can be a bit more complicated. Whether they’re confused or simply not as alert as they once were, a car accident with an elderly driver can be very difficult. If you or someone you care about has been injured in one of these accidents, contact us today for a free consultation.
How Do Elderly Drivers Cause Car Accidents in California?
Among car accidents in California, the 8th leading cause involves elderly drivers. This isn’t necessarily all that surprising, given the underlying statistics. According to data from the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there have been an average of:
- 22,604.4 car accidents per year involving older adults between 2019 and 2023.
This is obviously a large amount of car accidents on average. But while this data shows you the scope of the issue, it doesn’t necessarily tell us how these accidents happen. A lot of this has to do with the limitations elderly drivers have, but mostly, these accidents happen because of:
- Loss of vision or hearing – Probably the most common cause of car accidents among older or elderly adults is poor vision or hearing. This causes a lack of awareness of surroundings, and leads to accidents from missed signs or not hearing warnings.
- Cognitive issues – Along the same lines, older adults in cognitive decline leads to reduced reaction times, slower decision-making, and an overall increased risk of making erratic moves or decisions.
- Ignoring complaints – Independence is important to some older adults, but unfortunately, this doesn’t change their limitations. When they ignore complaints or warnings from loved ones and others, it puts everyone at risk on the road.
- Keeping up with technology – Keeping up with technology is very difficult for most older drivers. Newer cars come equipped with things these drivers might not be used to, including safety features that can overcompensate for an older person’s lack of driving ability.
All of these factors certainly contribute to accidents with older drivers in California. But specifically, if it’s you that’s involved in one of these accidents, you have to know what you can do to protect your claim.
How Do You Protect Your Claim After a Car Accident With an Older Driver?
Generally speaking, being involved in a car accident with an older driver doesn’t change your rights, nor does it change what you need to do to build a case. It’s all about getting information and evidence at the scene, but it’s just as important to focus on your injuries. So, if you want to protect your claim, here’s what you need to do:
- Call 911 – Call 911 immediately to get ambulance and police help. This will take care of any injuries, and give you proper documentation and intervention. Make sure to tell the police if you believe that the driver’s age played a factor in the accident itself.
- Gather evidence and information – Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including your injuries and vehicle damage. Collect the older driver’s contact and insurance details, and their license plate number. Also, get contact information from any witnesses. This information is vital for building your case and verifying the facts of what happened.
- Work with police – When the police investigate what happened, answer their questions truthfully, but avoid admitting fault. Your cooperation will make sure there’s a thorough investigation and supports your case.
- Preserve any evidence you can get – Keep all medical bills and documents related to the accident. Don’t repair any damage until you’ve documented it. This evidence is essential for proving your injuries and damages during the claims process.
Again, these steps are important for building the foundation of your case for damages. Remember, some of this information might be difficult to get from the older driver, but working with our team will make sure you have the evidence you need.
Legal Support From Experienced California Car Accident Lawyers
Driving can become challenging as people age due to declines in reaction time, vision, and awareness.
At Maison Law, our experienced car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you recover the support and benefits you need after an accident. If an elderly driver is at fault and causes injury, we will guide you through the claims process, helping you recover damages like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Repair costs for your vehicle
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Wrongful death expenses in fatal accidents
We work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything up-front. Our personalized approach allows you to focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation to get started.
