What Are the Dangers of Drowsy Driving?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving contributes to an estimated 100,000 crashes each year in the United States alone.

That is unfortunate but not surprising: Fatigue impairs reaction time, judgment, and alertness, increasing the risk of car accidents. These accidents result in injuries, fatalities, and substantial economic costs. Recognizing the dangers of drowsy driving prevents accidents and saves lives.

What Causes Drowsy Driving?

Feelings of fatigue and drowsy driving are mostly caused by sleep deprivation or poor sleep quality. Insufficient sleep due to long work hours, irregular schedules, or untreated sleep disorders can leave drivers feeling sleepy and less alert behind the wheel.

Additionally, driving late at night or early in the morning, when the body’s natural circadian rhythm promotes sleepiness, increases the risk of drowsy driving. Certain medications and alcohol consumption can also contribute to drowsiness while driving.

What Are the Risks Associated With Drowsy Driving?

Drowsy driving poses significant risks to both drowsy drivers themselves and others on the road. In fact, the symptoms can be compared to driving under the influence:

• Reduced Reaction Time: Fatigue slows reaction time, making it more difficult for drowsy drivers to respond quickly to changing traffic conditions or emergencies.
• Impaired Judgment: Sleep deprivation can impair judgment, leading to poor decision-making while driving. Examples include misjudging distances, speed, or gaps in traffic.
• Decreased Alertness: Drowsy drivers may experience lapses in attention and concentration, increasing the likelihood of missing important cues on the road, like traffic signals and road signs. They might also miss seeing pedestrians and cyclists.

What Are the Signs of Drowsy Driving?

Signs of drowsy driving can manifest subtly. Excessive yawning, blinking frequently, and struggling to keep eyes open are common indicators of fatigue while driving. Drivers may also show warning signs like difficulty maintaining a consistent speed, drifting between lanes, or missing exits or turns.

Feeling irritable or restless and having trouble focusing on the road are additional signs of drowsy driving. Recognizing these signs and taking prompt action can prevent potentially dangerous situations on the road.

What Can Drivers Do to Prevent Drowsy Driving?

To reduce the risk of drowsy driving accidents, drivers can take several preventive measures:

• Get Adequate Sleep: Ensure that you get enough sleep each night, aiming for seven to nine hours of quality sleep to feel rested and alert during the day.
• Avoid Driving During Peak Sleepiness Hours: If possible, avoid driving during late-night or early morning hours when drowsiness is more likely.
• Take Breaks: Take regular breaks during long drives to rest, stretch, and refresh. Aim to take a break every two hours or 100 miles. Switch drivers if you can.
• Avoid Alcohol and Medications: Avoid alcohol and medications that can cause drowsiness before driving. If you are unsure about the side effects of a medication, consult your healthcare provider.
• Use Stimulants With Caution: While caffeine or energy drinks can provide a temporary energy boost, they are not a substitute for adequate sleep and should be used with caution.

Let an Atlantic City Car Accident Lawyer at D’Amato Law Firm Fight for the Compensation You Deserve After a Drowsy Driving Accident

Trust an experienced Atlantic City car accident lawyer at D’Amato Law Firm to advocate for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve following a drowsy driving accident. We offer free consultations in South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury. To learn more, submit our online form or call our Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, office at 609-926-3300.