Disability Statistics – Perception vs. Reality

 

In the first episode of the new Sundance Channel TV show Push Girls, the different girls each relate their story of how they ended up in a wheelchair. We even see one of the girls, Tiphany driving a wheelchair accessible vehicle while she talks about it. What we learn is that four of the five was injured in an automobile accident, which might lead you to believe the chances of becoming permanently disabled in an accidental manner to be extremely high.

Research done by the Council for Disability Awareness (CDA) in 2011 identified a major disconnect between the perception and the reality of what causes disabilities. Seventy-one percent of respondents said disability is most likely caused by serious accidents. In reality, insurance statistics show that only 9 percent of long-term disability claims result from serious accidents.

The study also found that 83 percent of respondents think anyone can become disabled at any time. However, most people don’t believe they are personally at risk. Women believe men are more likely to become disabled, but statistics demonstrate that across most age groups the opposite is true. In reality, women are more susceptible. The startling fact according to the Social Security Administration is that 1 out of every 4 Americans entering the workforce today will become disabled before they retire.

The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA) is an advocate for mobility and accessibility for drivers with disabilities. If you need help with converting or buying a wheelchair accessible car, truck or van, please consider one of our mobility equipment dealers.