Drowsy driving is amongst the most overlooked causes of car accidents. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that up to 6,000 fatal crashes occur each year due to drowsy drivers. While some drowsy driving accidents may be caused by prescription drugs that impair driving abilities, others accidents may be caused be drivers who have experienced sleep deprivation or exhaustion. No matter what the cause, drowsy driving is extremely dangerous because it affects a number of driving abilities such as:.
- Attention: A driver is less able to pay attention if they are extremely tired or drowsy
- Reactions: A driver's reaction timing is much slower if the brain and body are not fully alert
- Decision-making: A driver is less able to make the appropriate decisions when driving in a drowsy state
There are many warning signs that drivers should be aware of to protect themselves and others on the road from drowsy driving. Below is a list of some signs you should look out for when driving in a sleepy state.
- Frequent blinking
- Excessive yawning
- Difficulty recalling parts of your drive
- Drifting from your lane
- Hitting the rumble strips located on most highways and freeways
To prevent an accident caused by drowsy driving, consider some of the helpful tips listed below.
1. Get an adequate amount of sleep
It is important to get the right amount of sleep if you are planning to make a long drive at some point during that day. Although you may not feel the effects of drowsiness before your drive, you may begin to feel the effects once you sit behind the wheel for some time.
2. Do not consume alcohol before driving
Although you may not be driving drunk, consuming alcohol at some point during the day can contribute to drowsy driving later on in that same day. Research shows that alcohol levels, even below the legal limit, amplify the effects of inadequate sleep.
3. Seek treatment if you have a sleeping disorder
If you have trouble sleeping, it is important to seek medical attention right away. A medical professional may be able to find a solution to help you sleep through the night. By getting the right amount of sleep at night, you are more likely to exhibit proper alertness for driving throughout the day.
4. Avoid medications made with ingredients that may make you drowsy
In many cases, persons will consume medications without reading the bottles for any warning content or ingredients. However, medication labels must state whether they can cause a person to become drowsy. If you consume medication that causes drowsiness, it is best to refrain from driving until these effects are completely gone.
If You Have Been Harmed by a Drowsy Driver
Our car accident lawyers at Lessem Newstate & Tooson, LLP are here to help clients who have been injured by negligent or reckless drivers. No matter what the cause of your accident may be, it is important to seek experienced legal representation right away. The sooner you contact a car accident attorney from our firm, the sooner we can begin building your case.
Do not suffer because of another person. Get the representation you deserve. We may be able to help you recover financial compensation for any medical expenses, physical harms, or emotional distresses you may face as the result of your accident.
Call Lessem Newstate & Tooson, LLP today and see how we can help you. We have recovered millions for the injured.
