Elderly-Related Car Accidents

Driving a car is one of the ways seniors can maintain their sense of independence. Elderly individuals are, however, more susceptible to serious injury and even death as a result of car accidents. Oftentimes, these injuries can result in less independence and require unexpected medical care and treatment. If you were injured in a car accident arising primarily from the negligent conduct of another, Knoxville car accident attorney Mark C. Hartsoe can help you seek damages for your injuries. Mr. Hartsoe is a seasoned personal injury lawyer with over two decades of experience successfully advocating for clients throughout Tennessee. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Elderly drivers are more vulnerable to injuries than many others when they are involved in car accidents. Older drivers tend to be more physically fragile; as a result, they are three times more likely to die from car accident-related injuries than younger drivers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. They also may be more likely than some other groups to be at fault in a car accident. In Tennessee, over 25,000 traffic accidents involved drivers over the age of 65 in 2012.

Age-related conditions and medications can lead to accidents for seniors on the road, but elderly drivers can take steps to minimize their risk when getting into a car. Seniors can:

• Buckle their seat belt
• Get regular eye check-ups and use glasses/contact lenses
• Drive during daylight hours and in fair weather
• Ride with a friend or use public transportation
• Make shorter trips

Safe driving is crucial for all motorists, but the elderly in particular can adjust to their changing capabilities while still maintaining their independence. If they do end up in a car accident, however, seniors in Tennessee can receive compensation for their injuries, or be held liable if they are the responsible party.

If you are involved in an elderly-related car accident, you may be entitled to recover damages for your injuries. Tennessee personal injury law allows an individual to receive compensation for any injuries sustained as a result of another’s reckless or negligent actions. Drivers, elderly or otherwise, have a duty of care when they operate their vehicles. If they do not exercise that duty, and cause an accident as a result, they are responsible for any injuries that result from their negligent behavior. If the accident was caused by more than one person, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries even if you partially contributed to the accident.

Car accidents can also be fatal to seniors. If you lost an elderly loved one car accidents page] in a car accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death suit against those responsible for the accident. A family member or the estate may file a claim to recover for medical expenses, pain and suffering of the deceased, and funeral costs.

There is a time limit, however, for filing a personal injury claim. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, is one year. Under certain circumstances, the time limit may be extended, but it is crucial to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney immediately if you are involved in a car accident.

Knoxville personal injury lawyer Mark C. Hartsoe has over twenty years of experience representing clients in serious car accident lawsuits. He will analyze all aspects of your case, and explain how he will work with you to fight for the compensation you deserve. Mr. Hartsoe has successfully negotiated settlements with defendants and insurers, and will vigorously represent you should your case go to trial. Contact us at 865-804-1011 or online for a free consultation today.