Fatalities in older drivers increases 50% in 2025

SALT LAKE CITY — In previous years, fatality rates for older Utah drivers have been trending downwards. But in 2025, there was a 50% increase, due in large part to motorcycle accidents.

This uptick highlights the importance of a safety plan, especially for aging adults.

“It’s time to start asking questions like, when is it time to get more support as they need to get around?” said Jason Mettmann, Utah Highway Safety.

One way to support loved ones is to enroll them in the Yellow Dot Program. It includes a pamphlet to keep in the glove box, which can be filled out with specific health and emergency information. This way, first responders know if there are certain kinds of care that should be administered.

It also includes a windshield sticker that indicates to first responders that there is health information inside the vehicle.

There are also other resources like car-fit.org. It helps older drivers decide how well their vehicle is working for them. They can learn what to do to improve the fit of the car, make sure they can see well out of it and increase safety for them and other drivers.

Making these improvements in an older driver’s vehicle can greatly increase not only the driver’s safety but also the safety of others.

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