In 2003, Florida mandated a vision test for drivers 80-years-old and older. A study has found that fatalities in Florida crashes involving elderly drivers have decreased about 17 percent since the vision tests were required. Because of this, many authorities believe that stricter laws will help reduce highway deaths among older drivers.
No new laws have been passed in this state since that time affecting elderly drivers. The current law requires drivers at 80 and older to renew their licenses every six years instead of eight years (which is the time period the rest of state’s drivers have). This requirement also includes getting a vision test in-person each time the license is renewed.
While there are nearly 34 million senior drivers on the roads in this nation, estimates show that by 2030 there will be approximately 57 million drivers age 65 and older nationwide. Because of this, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is concerned about the growing problem of older driver safety.
This is why NHTSA has recommended that the U.S. make consistent older-age driving laws and address the concerns that older drivers will hang onto their licenses longer than they should and to start making steps to improve the safety of the elderly and those who share the road with older drivers.
We will keep our eyes on this issue and report on any updates or changes to the law that affects the many senior drivers in Florida. If you have questions or need help with a personal injury claim, call a skilled Sarasota injury lawyer at Mallard Perez at (941) 952-1682 and receive a free consultation today.
