New studies show drowsy driving is just as dangerous as driving under the influence
If you have ever caught yourself feeling tired while sitting behind the wheel of your car, you’re not alone. Approximately 60% of adults in the U.S. report having driven while drowsy, and approximately 1 in 3 people have even fallen asleep while driving. With our lifestyles getting busier it seems like there is more to get done every day, and not enough time to get it done in. So, it’s not surprising there is such a high frequency of reported drowsy driving. But what may be surprising is how dangerous drowsy driving is. According to recent studies on the matter, drowsy driving is at least as dangerous, if not more dangerous, than drunk driving.
Effects of sleep deprivation are similar to the effects of alcohol
Most people know the effects alcohol has on their bodies, and many of these effects such as impaired decision-making and delayed reaction times are also extremely dangerous when driving. However, studies have now found the effects of sleep deprivation on the body to be similar to the effects of alcohol on the body. Drowsy driving and drunk driving also both double the likelihood you will be involved in an accident. And while many people may not realize it, drowsy driving is illegal just like drunk driving is, and you can be arrested for driving while drowsy.
Drowsy driving and car accidents
Knowing the effects of sleep deprivation are similar to the effects of alcohol on the body, it’s not surprising drowsy driving is a factor at cause in many vehicle accidents. According to research conducted by AAA, drowsy driving is estimated to be a factor in about 20% of all motor vehicle accidents involving a fatality, and in about 10% of motor vehicle crashes overall. Studies also indicate it only takes a minor deprivation in sleep to double your risk of being involved in a car accident.
How to prevent drowsy driving
Obviously, the best way to prevent drowsy driving is to ensure you are getting an adequate amount of uninterrupted sleep each night. However, it is also important to know the warning signs of drowsy driving, so you know how to prevent drowsy driving from occurring. A few common warning signs to look out for include difficulty keeping your eyes open, drifting between lanes, and trouble remembering details about the last few miles you have driven. If you know you have missed out on important sleep or might be a little drowsy, you can prevent drowsy driving by not driving late at night or for extended periods of time. If you know you are drowsy, then do not get behind the wheel. Try to have someone else drive for you or take public transportation, if possible, or take at least a 20-minute power nap before heading out. Finally, if you are driving a far distance or for an extended period of time, frequently stop to take a break and don’t try to drive throughout the night without stopping for sleep.
Tenacious New Jersey car accident lawyers hold drowsy drivers accountable for their reckless and negligent behavior and fight for the compensation you deserve
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a drowsy driver, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer fighting to protect your rights to recover the maximum compensation you deserve. The established New Jersey car accident attorneys at Leonard Legal Group, LLC have experience obtaining real results for victims injured in all types of automobile accidents. Our reputation as compassionate lawyers who are tough on negligent drivers has been earned by our relentless pursuit of justice for our clients. Call us today at 973-984-1414 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation. Our office is conveniently located in Morristown and we also serve all surrounding areas.