The program had as its intent the study of older drivers in private automobiles, their driving behavior, and their safety and mobility. The study covered a problem identification and assessment process followed by the subsequent adaption of the information gathered into mechanisms and suggestions for improvement of the safe mobility of older drivers. Through intensive review of previous research, consultation with other experts, new analyses of existing data bases and experimentation, driving problems and behaviors were described. Older drivers (55+ or 65+) have, at least, equal and probably fewer accidents per driver than any younger age group. Drivers, beginning around 65 and older have more accidents per mile driven than drivers 25-44. Failure to yield right of way, failure to obey signs and signals, turning at intersections (particularly left), inattention, medical impairments, and alcohol are all significant factors in accidents. As a result of this investigation of driving problems, assistance was provided for an older driver education program; a textbook and license renewal manual for older drivers was produced and a model older driver licensing and improvement system was developed.
Abstract