It has long been thought that elderly drivers tend to be more dangerous on the road than their younger counterparts. Younger, new drivers tend to be more fearless and potentially reckless when driving, maybe even attempting to show off to friends. However, a recent study found that elderly drivers might actually be safer on the roads than previously believed.

AAA Study Reveals Elderly Drivers Not as High of a Risk

The new study by AAA found that older drivers tend not to be as high of a risk on the roads as once thought. The statistics show that 1 in 6 drivers are over the age of 65 and about 90% have stated they had not been in an accident or had a moving violation in the past 2 years.

Older drivers also have obeyed the laws regarding not using their cellphones while driving, with the low percentage of only 35% saying they have talked on their phones while driving. Contrary to those numbers, drivers aged 25–39 averaged an 82% usage of their cellphone while driving.

High Risk Factors

Elderly drivers reported they are less likely to drink and drive or speed, and they wear their seat belts more often. Younger drivers tend to forgo the seat belts, drive faster, and pay less attention on the roads, potentially leading to an increase in accidents or moving violations. New drivers might overlook their lack of experience and push their limits on unsafe roadways and highways.

This is the main reason the majority of States has limitations on new driver's licences, such as only allowing one unrelated person in the vehicle with them if they are 16 years of age.

Most Head-On Collisions Are New Drivers

When researchers studied head-on collisions, they found that the majority of those who were involved or caused the crash were in the 15–24 age group. If they were driving a larger vehicle such as a truck or SUV, however, they were less likely to be killed or suffer serious injuries.

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day tends to be the deadliest for teenagers on the road. They are involved in more accidents at this time than at any other time during the year. Studies have shown that teenagers who must ask for permission to take the car are more likely to be safer on the roads.

Keep an auto accident attorney in mind if you have a teen that has just started driving.