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Study says seniors are better drivers

WASHINGTON, June 22 (UPI) -- Contrary to popular belief, senior citizens are not causing more traffic accidents than younger drivers, a study released Tuesday indicates.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the rate of fatal crashes for licensed drivers over the age of 70 actually declined from 1997 to 2008 along with the number of severe crashes reported to police.

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"Trends for older drivers are improving both ways," says Anne McCartt of the institute. "Seniors are less likely to get into police-reported crashes in the first place and they're less likely to die from their injuries when they do crash."

The reason for the decline isn't clear but one possibility is that older drivers may be policing themselves, the study says.

In addition, many states have shortened the license renewal period for older drivers and required more frequent vision tests.

Another factor may involve the bad economy which is prompting elderly people to drive less.

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