Avoiding a Drowsy Driving Accident
We have all had one of those days where we found ourselves yawning and rubbing our eyes by the end of it because we were so tired. Many of us still have to climb behind the wheel of a car to make it home and that means that we may not think twice about being tired before driving. However, drowsy driving is actually an extremely risky behavior that can lead to accidents that result in severe injuries. Therefore, every driver should understand actions that he or she should take to avoid a collision as a result of fatigue.
How Dangerous Are the Consequences of Drowsy Driving?
Unfortunately, the statistics regarding drowsy driving are disturbing. The National Safety Council has asserted that driving while drowsy is actually similar to driving under the influence of alcohol, and a driver is three times more likely to be in a car crash if fatigued. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving was responsible for 72,000 crashes and 800 deaths in 2013 alone. However, these numbers are underestimated, and it is also estimated that as many as 6,000 fatal crashes each year may be caused by drowsy drivers.
What Are Some Signs of Being Too Tired To Drive?
While drowsy driving is an ongoing problem both here in the Sunshine State and throughout the country, there is no law that specifically prohibits operating a motor vehicle while tired nor that dictates what level of fatigue equates to being too tired to drive. Therefore, it is important for drivers to take necessary measures on their own in order to help prevent driving drowsy collisions. The first step with this is understanding some of the signs of being too tired to drive. These signs include:
- Yawning
- Having trouble focusing on the road
- Difficulty keeping your eyes open
- Delayed reaction times
- Dry eyes
- Forgetting a familiar turn or exit
- Trouble paying attention to your surroundings
- Almost hitting stationary objects
- Drifting or swerving out of your lane
What Should a Driver Do if Fatigue Hits While Behind the Road?
Additionally, every driver should prepare themselves to know how to react if they suddenly find themselves becoming drowsy while driving. These steps include:
- Consider pulling over to nap
- Stop for a caffeinated beverage
- Switch drivers if you are riding with someone else
- Take breaks as needed to stretch
- In cases of extreme fatigue, pull over and obtain an alternative source of transportation such as calling a friend or using a ride-sharing company
Let Us Help.
Accidents can result in a load of serious injuries that come with expensive and unexpected medical bills and expenses. In addition to struggling to recover their private prior state of health, many accident victims find themselves also struggling to understand how they will pay for the sudden onset of unanticipated bills. The good news is that whether an accident results from drowsy driving or some other form of negligence, the driver who chose to get behind the wheel may be liable to the victims for their injuries and losses. The best way to determine your legal options is to reach out to an experienced team like the Miami personal injury attorneys at Payer & Associates. Contact us today to begin reviewing the circumstances of your injuries and preserving your rights.
Resource:
nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving
https://www.payerandassociates.com/understanding-safety-tips-for-pedestrians/
