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The most recent report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety was released in February at a joint press conference with AAA at the National Press Club in Washington D.C. Conducted by Dr. Lindsay Griffin of the Texas Transportation Institute, the study -- “Older Driver Involvement in Injury Crashes” -- indicates older drivers are twice as likely to die when involved in a crash as their middle-age counterparts. “Attacking this problem ideally will involve solutions aimed at the driver, the vehicle and the road system,” said foundation President and CEO Peter Kissinger. “Auto manufacturers as well as state and local road authorities can place increased attention on enhancements that explicitly address the aging population.” AAA's Traffic Safety Policy Director Dr. Bella Dinh-Zarr used the opportunity to describe AAA's new “Lifelong, Safe Mobility” campaign. Focusing on crash prevention to keep seniors mobile “as long as safely possible,” the campaign will use a three-pronged approach to help prevent crashes. “AAA aims to improve safety by developing a state-of-the-art self-screening tool for older drivers, advocating for ‘senior-friendly' road design and educating drivers on ways to adapt their vehicle to offset physical limitations brought on by age,” said Dinh-Zarr. Kissinger referenced the Foundation's seniordrivers.org website at the conference, where seniors or children of seniors may access helpful tips and investigate other transportation options. As a result, the Foundation's seniordrivers.org website had increased traffic of 300% from last year. With coverage by many of the major networks, local affiliates, as well as print and radio, initial numbers indicate the media event generated over 20 million impressions nationwide. The full report, fact sheet, PowerPoint presentation and press release are available on-line. Public service announcements for television and radio are also available that provide driving tips and cover issues such as medication, night driving, and fitness, contact Fairley Washington, fwashington@aaafoundation.org to request a copy.
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