Cobb County Pedestrian Accident Blamed on Driver Error
Cobb County police are blaming driver error for a tragic pedestrian accident last week that killed a 5-year-old school girl. According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution, Karla Campos was getting off her school bus when 82 year old Edith Anderson’s car struck the little girl.
Police believe that Anderson erroneously placed her foot on the gas pedal, instead of the brake pedal. As the car accelerated, she panicked. Anderson tried to avoid hitting a stopped car in front of her, but then swerved to the right and into little Karla instead. The girl was rushed to an Atlanta hospital, but died soon thereafter. Police do not believe that speed, alcohol and drugs were the cause of the tragic incident.
The debate over driving privileges for the elderly is a volatile one, as senior citizens would be the first to remind us that they are involved in far fewer accidents than teen motorists. In Georgia, there are some restrictions on senior drivers. Motorists above the age of 64 are required to renew their licenses in person, and may be asked to take a vision test and a written knowledge test. Motorists may also be required to submit a medical certificate, attesting that they are physically fit to drive. The Department of Driver Services will also re-examine a motorist’s driving skills, and his/her physical and mental condition. In case of physical or mental issues that could possibly impact a motorist‘s ability to drive, the driver will be given a restricted diving license that limits the geographic areas in which he/she can drive, or require the installation of special devices in the car to aid safe driving.
Driving privileges contribute to senior heath. Studies have shown that when elderly motorists have their driving privileges taken away, some suffer low self esteem and depression. It remains important for elderly motorists to be aware of their own limitations and to restrict their driving when the effects of aging begin to impact their driving ability.
Jason Schultz is an Atlanta personal injury lawyer helping victims of automobile and car accidents in Atlanta receive their rightful compensation.
