Towards a Safer California: Addressing the Road Safety Needs of Older Adults

Abstract: 

With an aging state population, it is crucial to understand the factors that contribute to road safety among adults aged 65 and older and identify at-risk neighborhoods for targeted interventions. In this context, this report analyzes fatal and serious injury (FSI) trends and patterns among aging road users, including older pedestrians and bicyclists, with a focus on identifying neighborhoods at risk for crashes based on senior FSI rates. 2178 census tracts (32.7%) were deemed as being potential at-risk neighborhoods, as they all exceeded the state average senior FSI rate of 120 per 100,000 individuals (0.12%). The report also discusses factors that contribute to road safety among older adults, including physical changes associated with aging and the impact of new mobility technologies. By identifying at-risk neighborhoods and exploring factors that contribute to senior road safety, this report aims to inform targeted interventions to improve road safety for older adults. 

Publication date: 
June 28, 2023
Publication type: 
Research Brief