Driving while you are feeling drowsy is more dangerous than you can imagine. Based on a CDC study, one in 25 drivers admitted to falling asleep while behind the wheels at least once a month. CDC further informs that such driving has caused more than 72,00 car accidents each year, resulting in around 6,000 deaths and 44,000 injuries. Thus, feeling drowsy while driving is as dangerous as driving under the influence.
Signs of Driving while Fatigued
Even if the driver falls asleep behind the wheel for as small as a microsecond, it can still be hazardous as people become busy with long workdays, stress, and personal issues, more and more driving while being exhausted and tired. Sometimes prescription pills also cause drowsiness.
Some common signs of driving under fatigue include drowsiness, nodding off, yawning, rubbing off eyes frequently, missing exits or traffic signs, skipping signals, feeling restless, facing difficulty in focusing, loss of concentration, hallucination, lane drifting, tailgating, and slow response to dangers on the road. Experienced auto accident lawyers such as Riddle and Brantley can provide additional information on these signs and how you can identify them in your driving. If you show such signs while driving, it is strongly advised to pull over at the nearest rest spot.
People who are at Risk of Drowsy Driving Accidents
Driving for a long and uninterrupted duration can result in fatigue and drowsiness. Also, drinking alcohol while you are already drowsy can worsen your case, making you more fatigued. Drivers who are most prone to drowsy driving include:
- People who work extra shifts or night shifts
- Commercial vehicle drivers like trucks, buses, trailers, etc.
- People with undiagnosed sleeping disorders
- Those who don’t get enough sleep regularly of at least 8 hours
- Those who have been awake for more than 18 hours
- People who use medications that make them feel sleepy include muscle relaxants, anti-anxiety medicines, anti-depressants, blood pressure medication, or medication used to control diarrhea or nausea.
How to Prevent Drowsy Driving
Below is a list of tips you can follow to avoid drowsy driving and prevent any potential accidents.
Get Adequate Sleep:
Many drivers only get a full night’s sleep on holidays and weekends. It is advised to get at least 8 hours of sleep before driving.
Do Not Drink and Drive:
Even small quantities of alcohol can increase the likeliness of being fatigued.
Check the Labels on any Medication you Consume:
If your medication indicates that it may cause side effects such as drowsiness, do not take it before driving or have someone else drive for you.
Avoid Driving During Peak Sleep Hours:
Avoid driving at night from midnight to 6:00 am and late in the afternoon.
Also, if you are driving with other passengers, try to engage in conversations with them so that your mind remains active while driving and keeps your focus on the road.
How Can a Good Car Accident Lawyer help you?
If you are involved in a car collision, a good car accident lawyer can help you through your insurance claims and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. You can do everything right but still get into an accident. If you have caused an accident while driving under fatigue, seeking comprehensive legal assistance is imperative as an experienced attorney can help you navigate any settlement or lawsuit.
