As people age, they may develop medical conditions that require them to be on medications. While these medications may help keep them healthy, it is not uncommon that these medications may have side effects that may inhibit a person’s ability to drive safely. While older drivers may not be aware of the danger they pose, drugged driving is still a growing concern amongst older drivers.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. is a car accident injury firm with experience helping victims who have been injured due to a drugged driving accident. Whether intentional or not, if an older driver gets behind the wheel while under the influence of a drug, they may cause a dangerous accident.
American Seniors Are Increasingly More Mobile
In the United States, over 45 million people over the age of 65 are still driving. It is not a bad thing for older people to drive a motor vehicle if they are licensed to do so, but the danger lies in the individuals who are older and taking at least one medication that may alter their ability to drive safely. In a study done by the AAA Traffic Safety Foundation, the following alarming information was discovered:
- The majority of older drivers take at least one medication daily
- The majority of those drivers are not aware of how their medication may impact their driving capabilities
Some examples of medication that older drivers may be prescribed that may inhibit their driving capabilities include sleeping pills or pain medications. If you know an older adult taking medications, there are tips to help keep them safe to prevent a drugged driving motor vehicle accident.
Tips for Keeping Older Drivers Safe
If you have a loved one who is a senior driver, there are steps you can take to help keep them safe when they decide to get behind the wheel.
- Read Labels: Be aware of the medications your loved ones are taking, and be sure to read the warning labels concerning potential side effects. Make sure your loved one is also aware of the potential side effects they may experience when they take that medication.
- Adjust Their Schedule: If your loved one has to take medication at a specific time each day, find out how long it may take for side effects to wear off and speak with them about possibly changing their driving schedule.
- Use RoadwiseRx.com: RoadwiseRx.com is a free website that allows people to look up medication and learn about the potential driving risks associated with that particular medication.
While drugged driving is a rising problem amongst older drivers, that does not mean all older drivers should never drive again. If they are a licensed driver, they should be mobile as long as they are aware of how their medications may affect them and can drive safely.
Partner With Experienced Car Accident Injury Lawyers
If drugged driving caused a preventable accident to occur, leaving you injured, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Consider partnering with an experienced car accident injury lawyer to help you build a strong claim.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. is an award-winning car accident injury firm with over 65 years of experience helping victims of drugged driving accidents. Our legal team is proud to provide our clients with the unique and dedicated representation they deserve. Schedule a free consultation here or call (215) 822-7575.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
February 11, 2022
