Drowsy driving is a much bigger issue than most people realize. In fact, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, crashes involving drowsiness is nearly eight times higher than federal estimates indicate. This information is in light of the most in-depth drowsy driving research ever conducted in the U.S.
If you were injured by a drowsy driver, contact our firm to discuss your legal rights after your car accident. As accomplished St. Louis car accident lawyers, we will explain your legal options and help determine if you have a case against that entitles you to receive compensation.
Dangers of Drowsy Driving
In the recent study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, researches examined the drivers’ faces in the 3 minutes leading up to the accident from dashcam footage from over 700 car crashes. The results, 9.5% of all accidents and 10.8% of accidents with significant property damage involved drowsy drivers. Additionally, and not surprising, is the fact that drowsiness was present 3 times more at night than during the day.
But why is drowsy driving so dangerous? The short answer, drowsy driving negatively affects a person’s ability to drive safely. The research shows that drowsy driving affects a driver’s ability to process information quickly and correctly. Some of the negative effects include:
- Impaired vision
- Delayed reaction time
- Impaired judgment
- Reduced awareness
Many people struggle to balance their busy schedules and often miss the needed amount of sleep. While this seems harmless, drowsy driving can greatly increase your chances of being involved in an accident.
How to Prevent Drowsy Driving
Driving while tired or drowsy, can cause symptoms similar to drunk driving. When put that way, it is a serious situation. Therefore, drivers need to take measures to prevent this from happening. Here are some tips to prevent drowsy driving:
- Get enough sleep before driving.
- During a long trip, stop to take breaks or even nap.
- If possible, don’t drive alone, especially on long trips.
- If you have been up for 24 hours or more, do not drive.
- Avoid driving during times when you would normally be asleep.
- Drink caffeine to help stay alert.
- If you feel your eyelids getting heavy, pull over immediately.
- Do not drive if you’re taking medications that cause drowsiness.
If You Were Hit by a Drowsy Driver
These drowsy driving statistics indicate that the likelihood of being hit by a drowsy driver is higher than previously thought. However, proving that the other driver was drowsy and that that is what caused the accident can be challenging. If you were injured in an auto accident caused by a drowsy driver, contact our experienced St. Louis car injury lawyers. By working with an attorney, you have someone who can help you through the insurance claims process and advise you of your legal rights.
For 25 years, The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. has helped thousands of car accident victims receive the compensation they need and deserve. Call our law office today at (314) 361-4242 or fill out our online contact form to request a Free Consultation.