According to a recent study, published in the journal Sleep, more than 6,000 people are killed in drowsy driving motor vehicle accidents each year, in the U.S. The Sleep Research Society (SRS), which publishes the journal, is calling for legislation to criminalize drowsy driving stating, “This drowsy driving legislation is just as important to raising societal awareness as drunk driving legislation was 50 years ago. According to the SRS, in the last five years there has been an average of one drowsy driving-related accident every two minutes, nationwide. With awareness and education that can change.
Drowsy Driving Facts
Falling asleep while driving is not the only danger of drowsy driving. Drowsy driving is impaired driving. The effects of drowsiness on driving mimic the effects of alcohol. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving causes 100,000 accidents each year. According to the study in Sleep, about 15% of all fatal crashes involve a drowsy driver.
The study authors say that many factors can increase the likelihood of a driver being a drowsy driver, including:
- Working long hours
- Working irregular hours
- Night shift
- Having multiple jobs
- Frequent nightclubbing
- Being a thrill-seeker
- Certain medical conditions
- Certain medications
Drowsy Driving is Negligent Driving
Drowsy driving is a personal choice. A decision to put yourself and others at risk. But, one of the dangers of fatigue is its deceptive nature. Like drunk drivers, fatigued drivers typically don’t realize how tired they are or how impaired they are.
The best way to avoid drowsy driving is to get adequate sleep. For many, that is easier said than done. For those who suffer with sleep disorders, medical conditions that affect sleep quality, or who cannot overhaul their careers and lifestyles to accommodate adequate sleep, the next best measure is planning ahead. There are a few things that you can do to stay alert behind the wheel. When all else fails, finding an alternative mode of transportation or even getting a hotel room could save your life and the lives of others.
If you have been injured by a drowsy driver, please talk to an experienced motor vehicle accident lawyer right away.