Mother-to-be killed in Pittsburgh accident with elderly driver

Whenever a deadly crash occurs, authorities, as well as the family of the victim, will likely want to know what caused the accident. Lately, various individuals have been concerned about elderly drivers causing car accidents. Many people plan to drive until they die, but unfortunately, that is not always a safe option.

One woman was recently killed in a Pittsburgh accident involving an elderly driver. The incident occurred when an 88-year-old man crashed his vehicle into the woman while she was leaning against a wall outside a Rite Aid pharmacy on the North Side. Investigators believe that he was attempting to pull into a parking space but accidentally hit the accelerator instead of the brake. It is unknown whether the driver will face criminal charges.

The 30-year old woman was eight and a half months pregnant at the time of the accident. She was rushed to the hospital after being crushed against the wall for more than 30 seconds. While doctors were able to save her baby boy, who is now in critical condition, they could not save her, sadly. The woman’s fiancé is now faced with raising their son alone with no health insurance.

In Pennsylvania, nearly 1.5 million people make up the 17 percent of drivers that are age 65 or older. While there is no comprehensive testing of older drivers, every month the state selects 1,900 drivers over the age 45 to undergo a physical exam and vision testing in order to renew their license. Based on those results, some drivers may have to complete a driving and knowledge test. Pennsylvania also requires doctors to notify the state Department of Transportation if patients develop a medical condition that may negatively affect their driving. Hopefully, these rules will ensure that people behind the wheel are physically and mentally capable of handling the responsibilities that come with driving. As a result, the roads will be made safer for all travelers.

Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, “After fatal crash, questions arise about elderly driver,” Andrew McGill, Nov. 28, 2014