Jeonnam Province Focuses on Reducing Traffic Accidents Among Elderly Drivers

Joint Participation by Seven Related Organizations
Customized Consulting for 22 Cities and Counties
Support for Lane Departure Warning Devices
Promotion of Pedal Black Box Installation

Jeollanam-do is preparing various support measures, including the installation of pedal black boxes, to prevent accidents among elderly people aged 65 and older. Provided by Jeonnam Province

Jeonnam Province is making every effort to ensure a safe traffic environment and prevent traffic accidents among elderly drivers aged 65 and older, by providing support for safe driving assistance devices and offering customized consulting services for all 22 cities and counties in the region.

To reduce the number of elderly traffic accident fatalities, Jeonnam Province launched a customized consulting initiative on May 8, beginning in Yeosu, in collaboration with seven organizations: the Jeonnam Provincial Police Commission, Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency, city and county governments, city and county police stations, Korea Road Traffic Authority, and Korea Transportation Safety Authority.

It is expected that by leveraging the expertise and field experience of each organization, appropriate improvement measures tailored to each location can be developed to help prevent traffic accidents involving the elderly.

The consulting project targets locations where elderly traffic fatalities occurred in 2024. It involves investigating accident types, road conditions, and whether traffic accidents have recurred over the past three years. Based on this information, the seven participating organizations will analyze site-specific issues and propose comprehensive, customized improvement measures, such as adjusting traffic systems, improving road structures, and conducting publicity and educational campaigns for residents.

Through this consulting initiative, Jeonnam Province plans to focus on preventing the recurrence of traffic accidents involving the elderly and on creating safe road environments tailored to local conditions. The province is also actively considering designating senior protection zones and village resident protection sections at locations with frequent elderly traffic accidents, and plans to expand practical budget support accordingly.

For elderly drivers aged 65 and older who find it difficult to return their driver's licenses due to livelihood needs or inconvenience in using public transportation, the province is implementing a support program for lane departure warning devices.

This year, for 692 vehicles owned by elderly drivers aged 65 and older, the province is offering up to 570,000 KRW in installation support, allowing applicants to choose both the traditional lane departure warning device and, for the first time, a pedal black box.

The lane departure warning device alerts the driver with an alarm if the vehicle leaves its lane in situations requiring special attention, such as at night, in the rain, on sharp curves, or on narrow roads, helping the driver stay centered in the lane. The pedal black box records pedal operation footage, which can serve as evidence in traffic accidents, particularly in response to the recent surge in sudden acceleration and pedal misapplication incidents.

Applications can be submitted at the administrative welfare center of the applicant's local town, township, or neighborhood. Applicants must bring identification, and since support methods may differ by city or county, it is recommended to inquire in advance before applying.