New technology helps drivers avoid accidents
California residents may be interested to know that according to a projection from the U.S. Census Bureau, there will be roughly 54 million people in America who are 70 and older. Of those in that age group, 80 percent are expected to be licensed drivers, and that number could be even higher if car safety technology continues to evolve.
Over the past seven years, Google has been working on automobile technology that would allow cars to drive themselves. While the company wants a fully autonomous vehicle on the road by 2020, many have expressed doubt that this will take place. However, automated emergency brakes are expected to be available in new vehicles by 2022, and companies such as Toyota have plans to include them by the end of 2017.
By May 2018, all new cars will be required to have rear-view cameras that allow drivers to better see what is behind their vehicles. Many cars already have such technology, and it is thought to be beneficial to older drivers who may have limited range of motion or ability to scan their surroundings. Organizations such as the AARP are planning to educate older drivers about safety technology and how they can benefit from using it while driving.
Those who are hurt in a car crash caused by a negligent driver may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. If a negligent driver was talking on a cell phone or driving too fast for road conditions, injured victims may be entitled to compensation for medical bills and lost wages. They may also be entitled to lost future earnings or other medical costs such as obtaining a wheelchair or prescription medication.