Having seniors in my own family, I'm often concerned about their safety while driving. I've always suggested that they shop for vehicles that have the best safety ratings and score the highest on safety testing. At the same time, I've always wondered if the automotive industry ever really looked at vehicle safety specifically for seniors as opposed to everyone in general? One of my concerns for my father has been how well his vehicle would perform at a safety level given his age?
When I came across this article, I was extremely happy to see that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has adopted a more proactive approach for senior citizens.
Read more below:
As part of its ongoing effort to make vehicles as safe as possible, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is reportedly looking into creating a new crash-test rating system for cars which includes introducing a "Silver" rating to indicate added safety for senior drivers. Automotive News reports that NHTSA Administrator David Strickland says the agency is trying to find a way to make cars safer for senior citizens and it's also seeking a way to incorporate crash-prevention technology into its coveted five-star safety rating.
To protect senior drivers, NHTSA's Silver rating may focus on cars that offer inflatable seat belts or even introduce new technologies that help prevent unintended acceleration as a result of the driver accidently hitting the wrong pedal. Strickland also says existing crash-prevention technologies (such as forward collision warning and lane departure prevention) could work their way into the rating system for new vehicles. This all comes just days after another NHTSA-related report where the agency is apparently trying to come up with ways to fast-track "noncontroversial" rules and regulations.
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