Older drivers face dilemma

Research consistently has shown intersections are potentially deadly for all drivers. But experts agree this is more of an issue for seniors, who are far more likely to die in a crash due to age-related medical conditions and frailty than younger motorists.

The institute is a nonprofit organization, funded by major insurance companies, dedicated to improving highway safety through research and education. Its March Status Report released Monday also included a study by the institute and the University of Alabama that looked at the Florida law, effective in 2004, requiring drivers age 80 and older to pass a vision test when renewing their license.

The research found 80 percent of those eligible to renew their license attempted to do so and that ultimately, 93 percent succeeded — although 12 percent had to try a second time. Those who opted not to renew tended to be older, female and in poorer health; half said they decided not to try because they did not think they could pass the vision test.

About three-fourths of 1,242 older drivers surveyed said they did not think the age-related vision screen was unfair.