All of us will be involved in accidents throughout our lives, whether it’s something minor like tripping and twisting your ankle or something more serious like a dog bite. However, certain age groups are more likely to suffer an accident resulting in serious or even fatal injuries. Children and senior citizens are among the age groups who suffer the highest risk of being involved in different types of accidents. Keep your loved ones safe by being aware of their risk of suffering these common accidents and learn about the safety measures you can take to prevent an injury.
Car Accidents
Car accidents are one of the most common accidents in the United States. However, few people are aware that teenagers are among the age group that is most likely to be involved in a car accident. Teen car accident statistics show that per 100,000 drivers 37% of those involved in a fatal accident were teenagers between the ages of 16 to 20. These figures only reinforce the importance of teaching young drivers safe driving techniques and giving them enough driving practice before they drive on their own. Keep your teenager safe by making sure they are mature and responsible enough to make good decisions while driving on their own, stress the dangers of distracted and drunk driving, and teach them how to drive safely by setting a good example on them.
Falls
Falls are a common accident that could result in serious lifelong injuries. Statistics show that older people have a higher risk of falling compared to other age groups. According to data from the CDC, one in four older people falls each year. Normal changes during aging cause older people to fall more often than the rest of the population. Such changes include poor eyesight, poor strength and balance, vitamin D deficiency, foot and joint pain, and the use of medicines that can affect balance and alertness. If you or a loved one has recently suffered a fall, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Even if there are no visible injuries there may be a hidden underlying condition that caused the fall. Statistics show that falling once increases your risk of falling again. Prevent a fall in your home by removing objects that interfere with walking, such as cords and rugs, keep high traffic areas clear, maintain proper lighting throughout your home and install handrails on stairs and bathrooms.
Pedestrian Accidents
The CDC states that almost half of pedestrian fatal accidents involved alcohol. This means that intoxicated pedestrians and intoxicated drivers are more likely to be involved in a fatal accident. Data also shows that pedestrians who are 65 years or older accounted for 20% of all pedestrian fatalities in 2017. It’s important to pay attention to oncoming cars and your surroundings as a pedestrian. Avoid an accident and don’t use handheld devices as you’re walking on a busy street, avoid using headphones, this way you will be able to hear oncoming vehicles. Always follow road rules and obey crossing signals. Walk on sidewalks and as far from traffic as possible. Never assume that a driver sees you, make eye contact with the driver or signal them if it’s okay for you to cross.
Swimming Pool Drownings
It’s summertime and families all over the country will enjoy the season by spending time at the swimming pool. However, this special season also brings some unfortunate accidents such as drownings. Statistics show that one in five people that suffer a fatal drowning accident are children under 14 years old. Children are more likely to suffer these accidents due to their inexperience in the water and poor swimming abilities. Prevent an accident from ruining your summer by making sure there is always an adult inside the pool accompanying children. Someone should always be within an arm’s reach of the children, install a fence around a pool that children cannot climb over or open, teach children how to swim at an early age.