Connection: Inland Northwest Drivers

Aging Washington state drivers are involved in slightly more than their share of fatal accidents.

But the problem likely isn’t as serious as people think, said Jonna VanDyk of the Washington Traffic Safety Commission.

“The statistics reflect a small amount of overrepresentation, but it’s not in line with the public’s perception,” she said. “The public perceives they’re out there causing lots of accidents.”

In 1997, Washington drivers over the age of 75 made up 5.2 percent of the state’s licensed drivers - that’s 216,500 out of 4.2 million. They accounted for 5.7 percent of the fatal accidents, or 50 out of 871.

Across the state line, Idaho’s aging drivers are under-represented in collision statistics.

In 1997, Idaho drivers aged 75 and older were involved in 540 fatal and injury accidents. They account for only 3.4 percent of the state’s serious collisions, while making up 5.6 percent of the licensed drivers.

Both states shy away from having age-related driver checks, but they do re-evaluate people suspected of impairment.

In Washington, any resident can report a driver believed to be impaired to the Department of Licensing. Forms are available at DOL offices or on the Internet at www.wa.gov/dol. Also, a letter about the driver can be mailed to the Department of Licensing’s Driver Services, P.O. Box 9030, Olympia, WA 98507-9030.

In Idaho, only family members, physicians or law enforcement officers can report an impaired driver. A letter should be sent to the Idaho Transportation Department, Attn: Medical Desk, P.O. Box 7129, Boise, ID 83707.

In both states, the drivers can learn who requested the re-evaluation.