Group calls for more state funding to address needs of older drivers

Washington – State transportation departments need additional funding to address the transportation needs of older Americans – who will make up larger proportions of roadway users in the coming years – according to a new report (.pdf file) released Feb. 22 by nonprofit transportation research group TRIP.

Researchers examined current efforts being made by state transportation departments to address the needs of drivers 65 and older. They cited National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data (.pdf file) that found these drivers account for 17 percent of all traffic fatalities despite accounting for only 8 percent of all miles driven in the United States.

The report states that because the majority of this population primarily uses private vehicles, roadway improvements should be key funding areas and should include improvements in sign visibility, lighting and warning systems.