Car accident risks when encountering a drowsy driver

On Behalf of | Aug 26, 2015 | Car Accidents |

There are numerous reasons why a Florida driver might get into a car accident. One that is often avoidable is if a driver is operating the vehicle while drowsy. Understanding the facts about drowsy driving can help drivers identify when it might be risky to go out on the road and what to watch for from other drivers.

Driving while drowsy affects a driver’s attentiveness, reactions and decision-making abilities. The failure to pay proper attention to the road can result in a driver not being able to see factors that would easily be recognized when fully alert. Decisions are made constantly when driving, and if the driver is not fully cognizant of his or her surroundings, a wrong decision can cause a car accident. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration asserts that an estimated 2.5 percent of fatal accidents and 2 percent of accidents resulting in injuries are related to drowsy driving. 

There are certain aspects of the population who are more prone to drowsy driving. They include commercial drivers, workers who are employed on night shifts or long shifts, drivers who have sleep disorders, drivers who are using sedatives and drivers who are not getting the full amount of sleep needed to be alert. A study relied on revelations by drivers as to how often they fell asleep behind the wheel. 4.2 percent of 150,000 adults age 18 and above in 19 states plus the District of Columbia stated that they fell asleep while driving at least once in the previous month.

Signs of a drowsy driver include yawning and blinking, having trouble remembering the previous few miles while driving, missing an exit, drifting into other lanes and hitting the rumble strip. Knowing the signs of a drowsy driver is useful, but it may not prevent accidents from occurring. Medical expenses and even fatalities can happen due to a drowsy driver. Those who have been harmed by a drowsy driver and want to learn more about the possibility of compensation may want to discuss their situation with a legal professional.

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attorneys Brad Culpepper and Brett J. Kurland