Recently, a Chinese tourist was struck and killed in a pedestrian accident near the beach. The driver was an 85-year-old man who veered off the road and hit the man who was walking on the sidewalk. The car landed on its roof in a parking lot after hitting a short cinder block wall. Sadly, the pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The senior driver was hospitalized with injuries that were not life threatening.
Senior Drivers and Auto Accidents
While generally speaking, seniors are safe drivers compared to other age groups (particularly teen drivers), certain age-related conditions and limitations can also mean their reaction times are slower. We all remember the tragic case of the elderly man who drove down Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, running over and killing ten innocent bystanders. However, most older drivers do recognize and avoid situations where their limitations put them at risk. They drive less after dark, during rush hour or in bad weather, and avoid difficult roads such as highways and intersections.
Current research suggests that it is complex processing skills, not actual sight or hearing difficulties, that are the root cause of dangerous driving for elderly drivers. As a result, a number of doctors and insurance groups are recommending that seniors take mandatory refresher courses in driving and tests for mental dexterity. If you or a loved one was injured in an auto accident caused by a senior driver, contact an experienced accident attorney to discuss your 
legal rights.
Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, loss of love and companionship and pain and suffering. An experienced San Fernando Valley car accident lawyer can walk you down the right path and ensure that you and your family receive the financial compensation you deserve.
For more information on how to file a claim after being injured in an accident that was not your fault, or to discuss a potential wrongful death claim, contact skilled injury attorney Barry P. Goldberg today.
