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Elderly travelers in Florida at risk because of driver negligence

Whether you’re a Florida resident over age 65 who often travels as a passenger in a loved one’s vehicle, takes a shuttle bus from a condominium complex or assisted living facility or still gets behind the wheel to drive, safety often hinges upon the actions of other motorists nearby. You may take some solace in the fact that every driver is legally obligated to adhere to traffic laws and safety regulations.

The problem is that, not all of them do. In fact, some motorists are downright reckless and think it’s no big deal to drive at excessive speeds or accelerate to try to beat a yellow light. Other issues, such as consumption of alcohol or drugs, distractions in or out of a particular vehicle, or anger issues that result in road rage may be placing you at risk for serious injury as well.

Driver negligence is often connected to these issues

Elderly people often have slower reaction times. Therefore, if you’re an older person who still drives, you might not be able to swiftly and safely react in time to avoid a crash if a reckless or negligent driver is nearby. The issues included in the following list are common causes of negligence while driving:

  • Cell phones, iPods and other electronic devices
  • Use of a global positioning system
  • Having a car full of passengers, especially children needing attention
  • Impatience caused by being in a hurry while driving
  • Road rage issues
  • Drowsiness, drunkenness or drug-induced impairment
  • Looking away from the road ahead or taking hands off the wheel

If you are involved in a collision at age 65 or beyond, chances are, your injuries will be much more severe than they might be for a much younger person. The older you get, the greater the risk that complications will arise if you suffer a broken bone, concussion, lacerations or other accident-related injuries.

Seeking support in the aftermath of a collision

If another driver’s negligence causes you injury, it’s imperative that you receive medical attention as soon as possible. Rescue workers are often at the scene in minutes following a collision, and will likely transport you to the nearest hospital, unless you need to be flown to a trauma center at another location.

Your quality of recovery may be affected by the skill, experience and efforts of your support team, which may include a spouse, adult child or other family member, doctors, nurses, physical therapists, insurance agents, and personal injury attorneys. Any or all such people can provide encouragement and support as you strive to achieve as full a recovery as possible.