In Florida, we often see and hear about speed-related automobile. However, we’re also seeing an increase in accidents caused by drivers that get behind the wheel when they are too tired to drive.
Drowsy driving has become a very serious problem as many drivers are just not getting enough sleep due to demanding work and personal schedules. Each year, drowsy driving accounted for nearly 100,000 crashes, 71,000 injuries, and 1,550 fatalities, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). Drowsy driving contributes to an estimated 9.5% of all crashes, according to AAA.
Why Aren’t People Getting Enough Sleep?
Did you know that 62% of adults around the world say they don’t sleep as well as they’d like? In fact, 50 to 70 million adults in the U.S. are affected by a sleep disorder according to the American Sleep Association (2021). Almost 25 million adults in the U.S. have obstructive sleep apnea and 30% to 40% of adults in the U.S. report symptoms of per the American Journal of Managed Care (2020).
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that a lack of sleep can stem from any number of things, including socializing with friends late at night, staying up to prepare for special occasions, caring for young children, or working late. Workers who routinely suffer from a lack of sleep include individuals who work in hospitals, pilots, truckers, and bus drivers.
What can be Done to Prevent Drowsy Driving Car Accidents?
Of course, the obvious answer is to get more sleep. However, our experienced Naples and Miami accident attorneys understand it’s never that simple, especially as our lives become more dynamic and busier.
Still, there are warning signs that drivers should watch for that will help them have a better idea of when they may be too tired to continue driving. For instance, if you are traveling on the road and you appear to “space out” such that you have no recollection of the last two or three miles you’ve driven, you may need to pull over and rest before continuing your drive.
Additionally, if you find yourself hitting the curb or drifting into other lanes, that could be an indication that you are too tired to drive. Teary or blurred vision, as well as having problems keeping your eyes opened and focused is another sign that you may be too tired to operate a motor vehicle.
Contact Weinstein & Cohen Today
Even with the implementation of new technologies to keep drivers alert, drowsy driving accidents still occur. We know that an accident can happen anywhere, so it is important for all drivers to remain as alert as possible.
At Weinstein & Cohen, we have more than 50 years of combined experience fighting for accident victim’s rights. Our experienced Miami and Naples accident attorneys at Weinstein & Cohen will put your priorities first. If you or someone you care about has been injured or involved in an accident across South Florida or Southwest Florida, contact the Miami and Naples personal injury lawyers at Weinstein & Cohen at 305-374-1011 or 239-793-3331, or visit fairnessforall.com for an absolutely free legal consultation to learn more about your options.
