Know the Facts About Drowsy Driving
In recent years, law enforcement and safety agencies have realized the significant dangers drowsy driving poses on U.S. roads. Many Americans are not getting enough sleep each day for a variety of reasons. Some adults simply stay up too late while others work odd and long shifts. Teenagers often get too little sleep because of extracurricular activities and homework on top of the school day. Others, of all ages, suffer from sleep disorders. Whatever the reason behind drowsy driving, it puts drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk for serious and fatal car accidents. If you were a victim of a crash caused by an overly tired driver, contact our office today. We understand how devastating a collision can be, physically, emotionally, and financially. Our number one priority will be to help you receive compensation for your injuries.
The Dangers of Drowsy Driving
People might not think drowsy driving is all that bad. However, the effects of drowsy driving can be just as serious as drunk driving. In both situations, individuals are driving in an altered state and are not as alert as they should be behind the wheel. Whether they are inebriated or tired, people are less likely to notice a problem up ahead and think clearly enough to avoid a crash. Ultimately, drowsy driving puts the drivers and others at risk of an accident and injury. Some of the specific dangers of drowsy driving include:
- Not noticing hazards in the road;
- Delayed reaction time;
- Veering into other lanes of traffic;
- Drifting onto the shoulder or into a ditch;
- Not paying attention to the posted speed limit; and
- Falling asleep behind the wheel.
Who Is Most at Risk of Drowsy Driving?
Anyone can make the mistake of getting behind the wheel when they are too tired to drive safely. However, certain individuals are more at risk for this behavior than others. They include:
- Commercial drivers;
- Shift workers, particularly night or extended hours shifts;
- Individuals with undiagnosed or untreated sleep disorders;
- Drivers taking prescription or over-the-counter medications that may make them sleepy;
- Young drivers between the ages of 18 and 29, particularly men;
- Business travelers who travel at odd hours and suffer from jet lag; and
- Parents of young children.
When Is Drowsy Driving Most Common?
Just as anyone can drive while being too tired, drowsy driving can happen any time of day. However, overly tired drivers are more likely to be on the road at certain times of the day. Indeed, most drowsy-related crashes occur between:
- Midnight and 2 a.m.;
- 4 a.m. and 6 a.m.; and
- 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Call a New Braunfels Personal Injury Lawyer for Help
If you were hit by a driver who was too tired and swerved into your lane or fell asleep behind the wheel, call an experienced New Braunfels car accident lawyer at the Bettersworth Law Firm today. Moving on from a car accident can be particularly difficult when you have sustained serious and long-term injuries. You may need medical treatments, rehabilitation, and care for years to come. You may also be off work for a sustained period of time or have a decreased salary expectation. However the accident affected you, at the Bettersworth Law Firm, we will strive to make you whole. We cannot undo what has been done, but we can fight to see that you are compensated for your injuries, including your future medical expenses and lost wages.
Source:
https://www.cdc.gov/features/dsdrowsydriving/
