Tragic accident in Deißlingen: 90-year-old wheelchair user died

Tragic accident in Deißlingen: 90-year-old wheelchair user died

On June 13, 2025, there was a tragic accident in Deißlingen that claimed the life of a 90-year-old woman. The senior citizen, who was dependent on her electric wheelchair, lost control of her vehicle around 4:20 p.m. when the right wheels hit the curb. As a result, she fell and sustained serious injuries. Despite immediate medical attention and transport to a hospital, she succumbed to her injuries a day later. The police in Konstanz have started investigating the exact circumstances of the accident and are asking possible witnesses for information, as Tixio reports.

This incident highlights the road safety of older people, who have increasingly come into focus in recent years as unprotected road users. According to the Federal Ministry of Transport, 59.3% of cyclists and pedestrians who were fatally injured in accidents in 2023 were at least 65 years old. These statistics make it clear that older people, especially in urban areas, are at particular risk. The reasons for this are not only their greater vulnerability, but also the changes in cognitive and motor skills with age.

Road safety for seniors

Much is being done to increase the safety of older road users. Events such as the German Traffic Safety Days offer free information on topics such as turning accidents, cycling or the safe use of Pedelecs. Another aim of these initiatives is to raise awareness among younger road users of the needs of older people. The "I feel young. I just need longer" campaign aims to promote consideration for seniors and is part of a broader approach to making mobility safe in old age.

Statistics from the Federal Statistical Office support these efforts: Although older people are less likely to be involved in traffic accidents than younger people, the higher probability that they will suffer serious injuries in an accident is a serious aspect. Of the total of 45,123 people involved in accidents in 2021, over 65 years 868 fatally injured. This makes it clear that the danger to seniors in road traffic should not be underestimated.

Advice on the safe use of wheelchairs

There are special materials and seminars for the safe use of wheelchairs that are intended to help older people realistically assess their own abilities and act safely in traffic. The brochures from the German Road Safety Council provide valuable tips on the use of walkers and motorized patient elevators to ensure the safest possible mobility. The seminars also discuss age-related dangers and help to develop compensation mechanisms.

This tragic accident in Deißlingen should make us all aware of the dangers that older people face on the road and emphasizes the need to support and educate them. Seniors should continue to be able to remain mobile, but with the necessary safety awareness and full consideration for all road users.