Older drivers may be at a high risk of being involved in car accidents, and those risks are simply exacerbated if they also suffer from migraines.
Migraines are a common condition, especially among older people, but they may be dangerous for senior drivers. According to the results of a new study, older drivers who suffer from migraines are as much as three times more likely to be involved in a car accident. The results of the study were published recently in the Journal of the American Geriatric Society. According to the researchers, migraines are already a common concern among older drivers with as many as 7% of senior drivers already diagnosed with migraines. The researchers believe that many migraines are undiagnosed which means we probably have an increasing population of older drivers on our roads who have their driving abilities impacted by their severe headaches and remain unaware of this. The researchers found a threefold increase in car accident risks for senior drivers in the 12 months after a diagnosis. Medications taken to control migraines do not seem to have any impact on car accident risks.
The researchers recommend that senior drivers who have recently been diagnosed with migraines discuss the effects of the condition on their driving abilities with their doctor. Be especially careful about the kind of medications that you take to control the pain while you drive. Also understand the dangers of introducing alcohol to the mix when you are already on medications to treat your migraines. Senior drivers already face a number of safety risks when driving and these could simply be compounded by their migraines.
The Migraine Trust recommends that persons avoid driving while they are suffering from a migraine attack. If you suffer a migraine attack while you are driving, pull over somewhere safe and treat your symptoms. Being prepared is being safe. Ensure that you have a plan in place for when you suffer an attack when you are driving, including a list of people who can drive you, if necessary.
Older drivers may suffer from a number of physiological and mental challenges that can increase their risks of being involved in an auto accident. Reflexes may be slowed and judgment may be affected by increasing age. Common problems like hearing loss and vision problems can significantly impact a person’s ability to drive safely. Make sure that you get yourself evaluated by a doctor regularly. Get your hearing and vision checked every six months. It is important to get prescription eyeglasses or hearing aids, if necessary.
The Atlanta car accident lawyers at Katz Personal Injury Lawyers are dedicated to the representation of persons who have suffered injuries in car accidents in the metro Atlanta region and across the state of Georgia. If you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a car accident, talk to a lawyer at our firm and discuss your legal options for a claim. You may qualify for compensation that includes medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering and other types of damages. Talk to an attorney at our firm and discuss your case. Initial consultations are free.