We are a sleep-deprived nation. Over one-third of U.S. adults sleep less than seven hours a night, and approximately 3.3 million people are chronically fatigued.
Therefore, it’s highly likely that many of the people you share a road with are driving drowsy. What does that mean for you?
Drowsy vs. drunk driving
People are well aware of the dangers of driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Even though there has been an increase in public service announcements regarding drowsy driving, most people still don’t understand how dangerous it is. Going an extended time without sleep can have the same effect as having a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit. When a driver is fatigued, the following can happen:
- Reaction times slow
- Attention span decreases
- Decision-making is impaired
Not getting enough sleep at night can also result in “microsleeps,” which are when someone dozes off for approximately 15 seconds while driving. The consequences can be severe. Drowsy driving is a leading cause of car accidents, with an estimated 328,000 crashes occurring each year. Of those, 6,400 were fatal.
Signs that you’re driving drowsy
Often, drivers don’t realize they’re too tired to drive until it’s too late. Here are some signs that may indicate you’re fatigued:
- Frequent yawning
- Trouble keeping your eyes open
- Difficulty focusing
- Drifting out of your lane
- Excessive blinking
- Forgetting the last few minutes of your drive
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial that you pull over to a safe area. If possible, take a short nap or switch drivers.
Many people try to juggle too many responsibilities and fail to get the sleep they need. It’s imperative to prioritize sleep and get between seven to nine hours each night. If you are on a long trip, take regular breaks to stretch, get a drink and give your mind a break from the task of driving.
While avoiding being a drowsy driver can help you avoid a crash, you can’t always avoid a reckless or negligent driver. If you’ve suffered injuries in a crash, it’s important to get the compensation to which you’re entitled. Having experienced legal guidance can help.
