Elderly Woman Fatally Injured in Lincolnwood Car Accident

 Posted on October 03,2018 in Car Accidents

On Wednesday, September 28, 2018, a 78-year-old woman was fatally injured when her vehicle crashed into a building near the Lincolnwood Mall. According to the Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office, the accident was caused by a medical condition that led to the driver accelerating into a parked car and ultimately colliding with the building. 

The accident was a reminder of the increased dangers that elderly drivers face every time they get behind the steering wheel. If you or your family members have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, finding competent legal representation can be key to you and your family’s recovery. 

Why Elderly Drivers Face Increased Risk 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), elderly drivers are in greater danger of being injured in car accidents for a number of reasons. Older drivers may be affected by diminished vision, reduced reaction time, and symptoms of medication that can impact balance and cognition. 

Through extensive research, the CDC found some staggering information that supports the narrative that elderly drivers face increased risks. For instance, multi-vehicle crashes in intersections account for 40% of all traffic fatalities among seniors over the age of 80, whereas they only account for 20% of traffic fatalities among drivers aged 16 to 59. These types of accidents are routinely brought on by poor decision making and lack of vision. 

Additionally, elderly drivers also put other travelers at risk. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), drivers 85 or older have the highest rate of fatalities in pedestrian accidents of any age demographic. Fortunately, many states have strict laws to ensure that only capable elderly drivers find their way behind the wheel. 

Ensuring Your Elderly Loved One Is Safe When Driving

The best way to protect your elderly family member’s safety as a driver is to adhere to state laws regarding elderly driving. Make sure that your loved one frequently renews their driver’s license through testing, takes vision tests at least once a year, and participates in a driving exam with a trained professional on an annual basis. These steps can all make a difference in ensuring they remain safe while operating their vehicle. 

Contact Our Lake County Personal Injury Lawyers

At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., our team understands just how difficult a car crash can be for the whole family. In the event of a motor vehicle collision, it is important to contact a legal team that will stand behind you and your family, helping you receive the financial compensation that addresses the damages you have suffered. To schedule a free consultation with a Waukegan car accident attorney, call our office today at 847-662-3303. 

Sources: 

https://seniors.lovetoknow.com/Elderly_Driving_Statistics

https://abc7chicago.com/elderly-woman-dies-after-crashing-into-building-near-lincolnwood-mall/4363530/