Thu Sep 19 05:53:10 UTC 2024: ## Older Men and Tailgating: Key Contributors to Road Accidents in Australia

**Perth, Australia** – A new study analyzing a decade of motor insurance claims has revealed that men aged 65 and over are the most likely demographic to be involved in road accidents. The study, conducted by AAMI, examined over 4.3 million claims from 2014 to 2023, finding that 26% of claims were attributed to drivers in this age group.

The study also found that men are generally more likely to be involved in crashes, accounting for 52% of all accidents over the past decade. This is attributed to men being more likely to be behind the wheel and to engage in risky driving behaviors such as speeding.

“We know men are more likely to speed than women, and the crashes are more likely to be severe – that’s across the ages,” said Teresa Senserrick, director of the WA Centre for Road Safety Research.

The study also highlighted the prevalence of nose-to-tail collisions, which accounted for 26% of all accidents. Experts attribute this to the common practice of tailgating, which increases the risk of a crash.

Other key findings from the study include:

* **Friday is the worst day for crashes**, accounting for 16% of all incidents.
* **The afternoon between 1pm and 4:30pm** is the most likely time for an accident.
* **Collisions with wildlife** have increased by 20% year-on-year, reaching over 7,000 incidents last financial year.

Road safety experts advise drivers to be extra vigilant, especially when driving on regional highways.

“When I’m on the road I’m keenly observant, watching the vehicle coming towards me,” said Jon Doust, a 76-year-old driver who regularly travels long distances across Western Australia. “There are a lot of older people on the road, particularly caravanning, so sharing the driving is important.”

Dr. Senserrick advises drivers to slow down when approaching animals and avoid making any sudden maneuvers. “If you jump on the brake too hard or swerve too hard you’re more than likely going to harm yourself [rather] than the animal,” she said. “Blasting the vehicle’s horn might help avoid a collision, and unfortunately, hitting the animal might be the best option to save yourself or passengers from injury.”

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