Research conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the risk of involvement in auto accidents increases for adults who are over the age of 65 years. While many of us sympathize with the potential physical and mental struggles of aging, victims of auto accidents still deserve to recover from the responsible party, no matter what their age. If you have been injured, an experienced Fayetteville auto accident attorney can help you with a potential case.
The higher risk for accidents among older adults may be due to several reasons, including:
- Arthritis, decreased strength, decreased flexibility, or other medical conditions that may cause difficulty switching pedals, gripping the wheel, or turning the wheel
- Decreased hearing or vision capabilities
- Delayed or weakened reflexes
- Memory loss, which can cause them to get lost or forget what they are doing
- Weakened ability to concentrate or focus
- Adverse effects of medications
In addition to the increased chance of causing accidents, elderly victims of car accidents can also suffer more serious injuries that require more treatment and a longer recovery time. Injuries such as a broken pelvis or hip can almost completely inhibit mobility for an extended period of time, which can cause an older adult to lose strength and possibly the ability to live independently.
As you can see, whether an older adult causes an accident or is the victim of an accident, the resulting injuries can be very serious.
Contact a Fayette County auto accident attorney for a free consultation
If you have been involved in any type of auto accident and suffered injury and believe someone else was at fault, an experienced auto accident lawyer at Shane Smith Law can assist you. We know how to identify negligent acts or omissions in order to help ensure victims are properly compensated for their losses. If you need help with a possible case, call our office today at (980) 246-2656 to schedule a free consultation.