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Member Research & Reports

Member Research & Reports

UAB Investigates the Association between Frequent Falls and Collisions in Older Drivers

Ms. Carrie Huisingh, doctoral student in the department of epidemiology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health – along with department colleague Dr. Gerald McGwin, professor and vice chair, Ms. Katherine Orman, medical student, and Dr. Cynthia Owsley, professor in the department of ophthalmology – recently examined the relationship between frequent falls in older drivers and motor vehicle collision (MVC) involvement in a cross-sectional study of central Alabama. This study involved a population-based sample of 2,000 licensed drivers aged 70 and older. Self-reported history of falling two or more times in the prior year was the main predictor. Outcomes were any MVC or at-fault MVC in the prior year.