Car Accidents Caused by Elderly Drivers | Plakas Mannos

Recent data challenges a common misconception that young drivers cause the most car crashes, when senior drivers are increasingly involved in preventable accidents. A review of the historical data compiled by Ohio State Highway Patrol shows that from 2021 to 2024, teen drivers caused 143,044 crashes, while drivers aged 55 and older caused 357,374 over the same time period – approximately 2.5 times as many.   

One explanation for this disparity could simply be that there are far more drivers over the age of 55 driving than 16-19 year old drivers. However, nationwide data from NHTSA confirms that drivers over the age of 80 are more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than young drivers.  

Recent reporting of car accidents caused by elderly drivers may be increasing awareness of the risks posed when a driver continues to drive despite medication warnings and health conditions that put the public at risk. These include: 

• An April 2025 car crash in which a 93-year-old driver ran a stop sign and was struck by a commercial truck. 

• A June 2023 crash in which an 83-year-old driver lost control of her SUV in a parking lot and crashed through a storefront.  

However, the typical suspected causes of crashes between the age groups shows differing reasons of car crash risk between these age groups.   

Understanding the Risks Associated with Senior Drivers 

According to NHTSA, several age-related factors increase their risk of crashes for elderly drivers: 

• Medical Conditions Affecting Cognition. Cognitive conditions that can cause a driver to become confused, not process as quickly, affect decision-making abilities, slow reaction time, or otherwise create risk of crashes are more prevalent in older drivers. These include dementia, Alzheimer's Disease and other cognitive conditions. 

• Medical Conditions Increasing the Risk of Crashes. Age-related changes in vision and hearing can cause difficulty in assessing distance, hazards, and nearby traffic.  

• Medication Side Effects. Certain medications commonly prescribed to older adults can cause drowsiness or dizziness, and otherwise impair driving capabilities. 

These risks differ significantly from those posed by younger drivers, highlighting the unique challenges senior drivers face when behind the wheel. After studying those risks, NHTSA reports that younger drivers are more prone to crashes where impulsive behaviors and risk-taking behaviors are more likely to cause crashes. Further, teen drivers are more likely to be distracted by cell phone use and interactions with other passengers who are often younger. Moreover, NHTSA reports that younger drivers are more likely to drive at night, where visibility is more difficult and drowsiness may occur. Additionally, younger drivers are more likely than senior drivers to drive under the influence of alcohol or other substances.   

Legal Help for Victims of Car Accidents Caused by Elderly Drivers 

As a matter of routine, Plakas Mannos investigates every detail about car crashes to identify all contributing factors regardless of the driver’s age. This includes locating and reviewing surveillance footage, requesting and reviewing officer body camera footage, speaking with witnesses, and obtaining a professional crash reconstruction. However, knowing these differing potential causes assists in aiming the investigation to rule out most likely causes by age group.    

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by an elderly driver, it's crucial to hire a lawyer who has experience with investigating crashes to determine whether known risks to senior drivers were ignored, causing a catastrophic crash.