Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1 in 25 adult drivers (aged 18 years or older) report having fallen asleep while driving in the previous 30 days? In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that drowsy driving was responsible for 91,000 crashes and 795 deaths in 2017 alone. However, these numbers are likely underestimated and fatal crashes may be much higher that are caused by drowsy drivers.
Driving while drowsy impairs your ability to react to traffic emergencies. Tired drivers don’t have the same reaction speed to react to dangerous road conditions compared to drivers that are well rested. Tired drivers often fail to focus on the road in front of them and can suffer from distractions while trying to keep themselves awake.
What are some of the warning signs of drowsy driving?
- Yawning or blinking frequently
- Difficulty remembering the past few miles driven
- Missing turns or exits
- Drifting from your lane
- Hitting rumble strip on the side of the road
Everyone is susceptible to being tired before getting into a car to drive somewhere. It happens to all of us. But your drowsiness can be amplified if you regularly take medicines that cause fatigue, or you have a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea. Drivers of large commercial vehicles and those with long commutes are especially prone to drowsy driving.
What can you do about drowsy driving?
The reality is most people need at least seven to eight hours of sleep per night, which means you’re better off sticking to a specific sleep routine. If you take medications that might make you drowsy, then speak with your physician about the best time to take your prescriptions. And always avoid drinking and driving.
What are the consequences of drowsy driving?
Drowsy driving can cause everything from minor damage to catastrophic injuries and even death. Drowsy driving not only affects the driver, but also any passengers, occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, bicycle riders and even physical property as well. While the driver is the primary responsible party, the owner of the vehicle, if different from the driver, may also be liable in Florida.
An experience Miami or Naples car accident lawyer can examine police reports, analyze the accident site and search for evidence of speeding, alcohol or drug use to determine certain fatigue factors.
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 accident lawyers and Miami and Naples personal injury attorneys 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.
