Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that although seniors account for fewer driving miles overall, nighttime accidents involving elderly drivers have increased by 14% in the last five years. These incidents often involve difficulty seeing pedestrians, reading road signs, or reacting to unexpected hazards.
Lawmakers believe restricting nighttime driving for seniors could prevent accidents and save lives—not only for elderly drivers but also for other motorists and pedestrians.
What Would the Law Involve?
If passed, the law would prohibit individuals over 70 from driving between the hours of 8 PM and 6 AM unless it is an emergency or they have special medical clearance proving they are fit to drive at night. Senior drivers would need to undergo annual eye exams and reaction time tests to qualify for exceptions.
The restriction would also likely include:Continue reading…