The research presented in this paper seeks to provide a better understanding of gender distinctions in the accident involvement of older drivers. The combination of the increased involvement of elderly drivers in accidents noted in previous research and the significant increase of elderly females has prompted this examination of accident experience between genders based on an analysis of traffic accidents in the state of Kentucky. All multi-vehicle accidents occurring during 1994-1996 were considered. Only records were a driver at fault could be determined were analysed. In general the results indicates that elderly females have higher accident rates than elderly males. On the contrary, younger age groups do not reveal gender distinctions in accident patterns. The author discusses possible causes.
Abstract