Most people are aware of the risks of drunk driving, but how often do we consider the repercussions of driving while drowsy? Driving while feeling overtired can be just as dangerous, if not more, than driving under the influence. Whether it is a late-night drive home from work, long distance travels, or anything in between, tired driving is a threat to the safety of everyone on the road.
Every year, an estimated 6,000 people die as a result of a drowsy driving accident. While it is normal to be tired at the end of the day, it is imperative to recognize when you are too tired to drive. If you experience any, or all, of the following symptoms, it would be in everyone’s best interest to stay off of the roads.
Signs of Drowsy Driving
- Difficulty focusing
- Heavy eyelids
- Constant yawning
- Bobbing head
- Drifting from lane
- Slowed reaction time
Most tired driving accidents occur between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m. because according to our circadian rhythm, also known as our internal clock, those are the hours that people should be asleep. Generally, these accidents involve a single driver who runs off the road at a high speed and they often crash into guard rails, trees, or telephone poles. In other cases, the driver may drift out of their lane and hit another car. 60% of adults in the U.S. have driven while feeling drowsy. In addition, approximately 1/3 of adults have admitted to falling asleep at the wheel.
Research has proven that being awake for 18 consecutive hours has the same negative effects on your driving skills as a 0.05 blood alcohol concentration, keeping in mind that 0.08 is the legal limit. Similar to drunk driving, the lack of sleep causes the driver to be sloppy and careless on the roads. Another study showed that people that drive with minor sleep deprivation are twice as likely to crash as someone who gets the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night. And unfortunately, one in five fatal car accidents involve a tired driver. After assessing these statistics, it is evident that tired driving is a dangerous matter. To prevent this from happening to you or a loved one, take the cautionary steps that are listed below.
How to Prevent Drowsy Driving Accidents
- Get 7-8 hours of sleep every night
- Do not travel alone, especially for long distance drives
- If possible, take turns driving with someone else
- When traveling long distances, stop for a break every couple of hours
- Try to avoid driving late at night or too early in the morning
If you have been in an accident with a tired driver and have suffered injury, the attorneys and staff at Malamut and Associates, LLC will is here to help you understand your rights and work diligently to get you every dollar you deserve.