While most drivers travel to and from work during normal business hours, running errands in the afternoon or evening hours, this does not mean they are well rested. Fatigued driving is often associated with motorists that travel during the night, but the reality is that a driver could be fatigued at any point of the day. This is all dependent on the amount of sleep a person gets and if they are able to operate a vehicle safely.
Drowsy driving is a growing concern. Since it is considered just as or even more dangerous than drunk driving, there is a need to understand this issue and ways to address it. A drowsy driver is a dangerous individual on the road, as they are not fully attentive and may not be able to keep their eyes open while operating a motor vehicle.
According to current statistics, drowsy driving is responsible for roughly 72,000 accidents, 44,000 injuries and 800 deaths. This data came from 2013; however, the risks associated with drowsy driving have only grown over time. It is estimated that 1 in 25 adults have fallen asleep while driving in the previous 30 days.
What causes a driver to become drowsy while driving? There are many factors that could give rise to this situation. This includes not getting enough sleep, working as a commercial truck driver and traveling long distances, shift workers that work night shifts or long hours, drivers with untreated sleep disorders and drivers that are currently using medication that makes them drowsy.
When a drowsy driving causes a car accident, it is important for injured victims to understand their rights and options. A personal injury action could help them prove that the drowsy driver was at fault. It can also assert the damages suffered because of the accident, helping them recover compensation for these losses.
Source: Cdc.gov, “Drowsy Driving: Asleep at the Wheel,” accessed March 5, 2018
