Australian road safety data: Seniors at more risk than young drivers

Aussie P-plate drivers have long been slammed as the riskiest drivers on our roads. New data shows that honour belongs to a different age bracket.

New data shows young driver deaths have halved but older motorists are now the most vulnerable.

For more than a decade, young drivers were considered the most riskiest on Australian roads.

But an analysis by Road Safety Education Limited (RSE) found youth road deaths have dropped by nearly 50 per cent since 2000, largely due to targeted education and stricter regulation.

But there’s another age group creating a new crisis on the roads.

Last year, a study from the University of NSW in Sydney suggested that road users aged 50+ could be subjected to additional driving lessons. Picture: Supplied

RSE head of program John Elliott said older drivers aged over 85 are now the most over represented demographic in fatal crashes.

“For the first time, older drivers have the highest fatality rate on our roads,” he said.

“This highlights the need for all drivers — young and old — to remain vigilant behind the wheel. Road safety is a lifelong responsibility, with risks evolving at different stages of life. Education and tailored support are essential to helping drivers adapt to changing abilities, ensuring safer roads for everyone.”

Over 88 per cent of over 75 driver fatalities take place during the day, compared to only 57 per cent of other drivers and their crashes are 50 per cent more likely to occur in major metropolitan areas, rather than regional or remote areas.

Last year, a study from the University of NSW in Sydney suggested that road users aged 50+ could be subjected to additional driving lessons.

But a news.com.au poll of more than 18433 votes, 52 per cent said ‘No’ to the question of – Should drivers over 50 be required to refresh their driving skills.

More than a third (36 per cent) who voted in the poll said such lessons should be ‘Only if there’s signs of driving breaches’. While just 12 per cent voted ‘Yes’.

The idea of having to refresh your driving skills frustrated many readers with many claiming that young P-platers and under 30 were the most reckless drivers.

“There are some over 50s who need refresher lessons but there are a hell of a lot more under 30s who need to learn how to drive and stop playing GTA on the road,” said reader David.

While youth fatalities have dropped, young men remain a concern.

Male drivers aged 18-20-years-old are 2.6 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than the general population.

Data shows that regional and remote areas remain a major danger zone. Picture: Supplied

One reader said “the idiots I see on the road everyday tend to be P Platers and tradies of around 25-35. It’s the lack of proper training in the first place. Licences should be far harder to get and easier to lose.”

Elliott explained that education and programs like RYDA have helped.

“Education works. Young drivers are making safer choices, and it’s saving lives. But we can’t take our foot off the pedal. Road trauma remains a leading cause of death for young people, and sustained investment in prevention is critical to ensuring this progress isn’t reversed.”

Despite the progress, regional and remote towns remain a major danger zone.

The RSE report found that more than 76 per cent of all vehicle occupant fatalities in Australia occurred in regional areas.

The statistics are alarming with young drivers in the bush are eight time more likely to be in a fatal crash compared to those in the city.

It makes sense, regional roads often have higher-speeds, riskier driving conditions and increased danger.

Originally published as Australian road safety data: Seniors at more risk than young drivers