The Florida law requiring drivers 80 years old and older to pass a vision test for driver's license renewal seems to be saving lives. A study showed that the death rate for drivers 80 years old or older declined 17% after the law was first passed in January 2004. Unfortunately, the study also showed that the overall death rates in Florida car accidents increased between 2001 and 2006.
According to the study, an estimated 7% of Florida drivers failed to meet vision standards and were denied renewal of their drivers' license.
The authors note that two possible reasons to explain the decline are (1) many elderly drivers felt they would fail a vision test so they didn't even try to renew their driver's license; or (2) elderly drivers with vision problems sought vision care to correct the problem.
It is good that this group of drivers have a declining death rate from car accident. However, there still remains too many deadly car accidents in Florida. It is so important that everyone drives safely and be prepared for those who don't.
If you have been injured in a Florida car accident, it is important that you talk with an attorney before talking with the insurance companies. Insurance companies have lawyers working for them--so should you!
Read more about Personal Injury Attorney Matthew Noyes and his Tampa Bay Personal Injury law firm that has been helping families after Florida car accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, and other personal injury matters for over 53 years. Then, contact Personal Injury Attorney Matthew Noyes for a free consultation.
