Improving safety and mobility for older road users in Australia and Japan.

Alicandri, Elizabeth; Hutton, Pamela; Chrysler, Susan T.; Depue, Leanna, 1950-; Glassman, Howard; Granda, Thomas M.; Harkey, David L.; Smith, Thomas; Warhoftig, Barry · 2008 · ROSA P / United States. Federal Highway Administration. Office of International Programs

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Summary

This report documents the findings of an international technology scanning study conducted in March 2008 by a team of U.S. transportation experts from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), state departments of transportation, and academic institutions. The study was motivated by the rapid aging of the U.S. population, which is projected to significantly increase the number of older road users, thereby placing new demands on transportation infrastructure. The team visited Australia and Japan because these nations share similar demographic trends with the United States and have established strong traffic safety records. The primary objective was to identify infrastructure improvements, policies, and operational strategies that enhance safety and mobility for older adults, with the understanding that such improvements benefit all road users. The methodology involved a two-week site visit during which the team met with government officials, university researchers, and non-governmental organizations in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and Tokyo. The scan focused on evaluating a "systems approach" to safety, which integrates engineering, education, enforcement, and evaluation. The team examined strategic safety plans, licensing policies, and specific infrastructure designs, including intersection operations, traffic control devices, pedestrian facilities, and colored pavement markings. They also investigated community-based mobility options and driver assessment programs to understand how these countries manage the transition from driving to alternative transportation modes. Key findings indicate that a systems approach is the most effective method for improving safety for older road users. The study highlighted that enhancing safety for this demographic improves safety for the general population. Specific infrastructure improvements observed included reduced speed zones in high-pedestrian areas, automated speed enforcement, forgiving roadside designs (such as eliminating pavement edge dropoffs), and protected pedestrian crossings. The report emphasizes that keeping older adults driving as long as they are capable is a public health priority, as they are more vulnerable as pedestrians than as vehicle occupants. Consequently, both countries prioritize fitness-to-drive assessments and license limitations over immediate revocation. Additionally, the study found that historical safety data is effectively used in Australia for planning and policy development, and that partnerships between government and non-traditional partners, such as motoring clubs and health providers, are critical for success. The significance of this report lies in its actionable recommendations for U.S. implementation. The team advised integrating the observed best practices into U.S. roadway design standards and guidelines. They recommended encouraging partnerships with non-governmental organizations to promote driver self-assessment and education on mobility alternatives. Furthermore, the report calls for a targeted research program to evaluate specific infrastructure improvements and the establishment of development guidelines for local governments and real estate developers to ensure accessibility for older residents. Ultimately, the study concludes that addressing the needs of older road users through comprehensive systems planning and infrastructure adaptation is essential for maintaining the independence and safety of an aging society.

Key finding

Implementing a systems approach to highway safety that integrates infrastructure improvements, such as reduced speed zones and specialized pedestrian facilities, enhances safety and mobility for older road users while simultaneously improving outcomes for all road users.

Methodology

field_study

Provenance

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Summary generated by qwen3.6-27b-prismaquant on 2026-06-10; verification: verified.

Topics

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• older driver retraining
• older drivers
• comparative international