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Drowsy driving is an unfortunately common part of being on the roads any time of year and one of the most dangerous. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that more than 100,000 crashes reported directly result from this factor. These crashes account for over 1,550 roadway deaths and 71,000 injuries each year.
This Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, make an effort to understand the effects that this can have on your driving ability.
How Does This Affect Driving Ability?
Driving while fatigued can have more effects on the body than many may assume. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it may even cause similar impairments to having a BAC of 0.05% depending on how long you have been awake. This level of impairment can impact your alertness, coordination, depth perception, and reaction time.
While this can significantly impact any driver, studies show that certain groups may be more at risk.
Who Is The Most At Risk?
The National Sleep Foundation estimates which groups may be more susceptible to falling asleep at the wheel, varying depending on age and occupation. The most at-risk groups include:
- Young drivers, especially males between the ages of 16 and 25
- Night shift employees or those who work multiple jobs
- Long-haul truck drivers
- Frequent travelers
- Individuals with untreated sleep disorders or other health conditions
However, drowsy driving can affect any and all drivers. To best keep yourself and others safe on the roads, make a commitment to avoid driving when fatigued.
3 Tips For Drowsing Driving Prevention
Need help staying awake behind the wheel? Here are three easy tips to avoid drowsy driving:
- Only get behind the wheel when you’ve gotten at least seven hours of sleep; otherwise, call a rideshare service or friend for a ride.
- Avoid driving when on medications that have drowsiness listed as a side effect.
- Avoid driving after consuming any amount of alcohol, as even small amounts may increase drowsiness.
No matter how long your trip, ensure that you are getting the adequate amount of rest you need to avoid a preventable collision.
Our Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman PLLC attorneys encourage you to practice safe driving behaviors this Drowsy Driving Prevention Week and the other 51 throughout the year. Do your part in making the roads a safer place.
If you are seeking legal representation following a collision with a negligent driver, call (662) 222-0597 or fill out this short form to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.
