It is not uncommon for drivers to overestimate their skill. Drivers will likely assume they can make it home safe in the face of distractions or fatigue. Unfortunately, factors such as these can dramatically impact a driver’s ability to safely reach their destination – making them a hazard to everyone else on the road in the process.
While driving distractions such as texting and other cell phone use have been well-publicized, fatigued or drowsy driving remains a silent hazard. Essentially, everyone has driven while tired. Whether this is getting to school after only a few hours of sleep after a study session the night before or getting home from work after a grueling double shift of constant stress and exercise, all you want to do is simply close your eyes.
Unfortunately, driving while drowsy is similar to driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Outside of the physical impact, reaction times and awareness of hazards all worsen the more fatigued a driver is.
- Being awake for 20 hours is equivalent to driving with a BAC of 0.08%.
Part of the problem is what was stated earlier – drivers might be unable to recognize the negative effects they are facing. Fatigue can be tricky as people have matured facing constant and varying levels of fatigue. In many situations, they can perform tasks just fine when tired – making dinner, having a conversation, writing a report for work or school, for example. Unfortunately, drowsy driving can be deadly – not only for the driver but for others on the road.
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident caused by a distracted or fatigued driver, it is wise to discuss your situation with an experienced personal injury attorney.
