Age Groups at High Risks of Causing Car Accidents in NYC
Numerous studies have repeatedly shown that older and younger drivers have an increased risk of causing car accidents than drivers in the mid-age ranges. Based on these studies, the top reasons for this increased risk are age-associated mechanisms and riskier driving behaviors. Various vehicle and environmental circumstances are also cited as common reasons.
Some studies have likewise found significant differences in nonfatal and fatal crash risks in subcategories of older drivers. For instance, there’s evidence that drivers between the ages of 70 and 74 exhibit a lower risk of causing accidents relative to drivers between the ages of 75 and 79. The highest risk is seen in drivers that are 80 years old and older.
Younger Drivers and Increased Crash Risk
Car accidents are the top cause of death for younger drivers worldwide. Younger drivers are also more likely to cause a car crash than older drivers. According to various studies, inexperience and young age are major contributors to this increased risk in younger drivers.
Specifically, the risk for teen drivers is higher than drivers for other comparable age groups, but drivers aged between 16 and 17 are particularly more at risk. Likewise, the risk is significantly higher within a year after young drivers get their driver’s license. The factors behind this increased risk include the following:
- Inappropriate and excess speed, which is the most common driver error among younger drivers
- Psychological characteristics, including over-confidence in their driving abilities and thrill-seeking behavior inherent in most young individuals
- Vehicle characteristics and mobility patterns – for example, a borrowed and unfamiliar vehicle
- Less tolerance of and control over alcohol when compared with older drivers.
It is also crucial to note that the risk of causing an alcohol-related car accident varies with age. Accident rates of 16 to 20-year-old drivers were three times higher than the estimated accident rate of drivers 25 years old and up for each BAC (blood alcohol concentration) level.
Older Drivers and Elevated Crash Risk
With older drivers, their elevated risk for causing car accidents is linked to their decreased ability to handle the complexities of driving because of the following age-associated factors:
- General age-related fragility and loss of physiological abilities
- Loss of capabilities due to age-related conditions like dementia as well as hearing and visual defects, among others
- The higher rates of DUI incidents involving illegal or prescription drugs that negatively impact an older driver’s abilities
Speak to a Top NYC Car Accident Lawyer Now
Whether you got injured as another motorist, pedestrian, motorcyclist, or bicyclist in a car accident, our skilled NYC car accident lawyers can ensure that you receive the financial compensation you are owed. We also represent victims of truck accidents, rideshare accidents, and employees who get injured in accidents whole on the job.
Get in touch with Lipsig, Shapey, Manus & Moverman to learn more about your case and your legal options for seeking fair compensation for your car accident-related losses. Schedule a free case evaluation with our NYC car accident lawyers by calling 212-285-3300 or sending us an online message.
