Older occupants are particularly susceptible to serious injury or death in the event of a car crash due to their increased level of frailty. Levels of frailty generally begin to increase from the age of 60 to 65 years, although for some women it can be as young as 45 years. Given the ageing of the population, the suitability of vehicles for older drivers and passengers is a particularly pertinent issue and one that provides great potential in terms of possible safety gains. This research was concerned with developing a protocol with which to determine the relative safety and usability benefits of particular vehicles for older drivers and passengers. Some vehicle safety features are likely to be particularly effective for older occupants and these should be encouraged. Usability and accessibility are also important issues for older occupants who may not have the same level of mobility as other people. This paper outlines the initial findings from this research and discusses the criteria that are being developed for determining the suitability of vehicles for older drivers and passengers. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E214057. Printed volume contains peer-reviewed papers. CD-ROM contains submitted papers.
Samenvatting