Older Adult Motor Vehicle Safety
In 2020, about 7,500 older adults were killed in traffic crashes, and almost 200,000 were treated in emergency departments for crash injuries. The ability to drive helps older adults stay mobile and independent. However, the risk of being injured or killed in a motor vehicle collision increases as people age. UNC Trauma wants to support our community with events and resources that can make older drivers safer on the road. As a member of the NC Senior Driver Safety Coalition, UNC Trauma partners with state agencies to stay up-to-date on safe driving policies for older adults and their families.
We partner with the UNC Highway Safety Research Center and AARP of North Carolina to provide CarFit, an evidence-based program to help older drivers find their “best” fit in their own vehicle, around the MRAC region. If you are interested in bringing CarFit to your area please contact Injury Prevention Coordinator, Anna Stormzand, at anna.stormzand@unchealth.unc.edu or 984-974-2437.
Learning & Resources
Helpful Links
- CDC MyMobility Plan
- Plan For the Road Ahead Website
- AARP Safe Driving Resources and Tips
- Seven Senior Driver Safety Suggestions from DMV.org
- AARP Senior Driving Courses for Seniors
- We Need to Talk: Family Conversations with Senior Drivers (for family members),
- NC Senior Driver: Promoting Safety for Older Adults
- 5 Phone Apps that Promote Safer Driving
Assistive Devices for Driving for Seniors [DOWNLOAD]
CarFit Program Brochure [DOWNLOAD]
For More information, please don’t hesitate to inquire:
101 Manning Dr., Chapel Hill, North Carolinatarheeltrauma@unchealth.unc.edu