Improving Road Conditions For Our Senior Citizens

According to the 2010 census, there are more than 3.2 million Florida residents over the age of 65, and that number is projected to double by 2040. Across the US, there are roughly 36 million people in that same age group.

As the number of elderly citizens increases, so does the number of accidents among that population.

Small changes can make a big difference

A recent study published by TRIP, a national transportation research group, found that one of the most common factors in accidents involving people over the age of 65 is insufficient or inadequate road signs.

A road sign is only effective if drivers on the road can see it. Signs that have small print or are placed in obscure locations make it very difficult for drivers to notice and obey them. This is especially true for older motorists who might have vision issues.

Larger road signs wouldn’t just improve driving conditions for those over the age of 65. Rocky Moretti, TRIP’s director of policy and research, believes that these measures will improve road conditions for all drivers. “The challenge is to create a roadway environment for older drivers, and really all drivers, that’s as safe as it can be,” said Moretti. In regards to updating and enlarging road signs, he believes that “these are cost-effective changes.”

Making the roads safe for all

These measures do not just help our older generations. Every second counts when you’re driving on the road. The more time you have to react to a lane change, speed limit change or road hazard, the more easily you can prepare to safely adjust for that change. Without adequate signs, any driver, regardless of age, would not have enough time to react and might miss a turn or end up involved in a car accident. It is in the best interest of all drivers to have better signs on the road.

Experienced Florida car accident lawyers like those at The Law Offices of Brent C. Miller have seen how small signs can cause big problems. The smaller and less visible important signs are, the harder they are to see and the less effective they become. If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, contact us today. We offer everyone the chance to be heard with a free case consultation.