Senior drivers some of the safest on the road

WASHINGTON – Many would not name seniors as the best drivers, but according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, seniors over 75 years old are some of the safest on the road.

In a three year study, the IIHS found drivers over the age of 75 posted a 45 percent drop in fatal accidents per miles traveled than any other age group.

However, the safety designation lasts only ten years. Drivers over 85 years old still have a higher rate of deadly accidents than any other age group, except teenagers, according to the study.

Many states require older drivers take safe driving courses like those offered by AARP and AAA.

WTOP’s Bob Kur contributed to this report.

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(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

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