Inclement weather, drunk, and distracted driving often lead to serious car accidents and multiple injuries. Unfortunately, drowsy driving and falling asleep at the wheel is another safety concern. Drowsy driving is suspected to be the case of one out five car accidents. Falling asleep at the wheel has become a serious traffic safety issue. In 2013, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that drowsy driving caused 72,000 crashes, 800 fatalities, and 44,000 injuries.
Why Do People Drive When They Are Tired?
There are many reasons that explain why there are so many drowsy driving accidents. Many drivers underestimate the risk and danger associated with driving while sleepy. Drivers tend to overestimate their ability to fight sleep. Other times, a driver may feel that there is no choice but to drive, even when they are tired and need rest. For example, many Georgians work late or early hours and must commute at hours when other drivers are asleep.
The end of daylight savings and fewer hours of sunlight has thrown off everyone’s internal clocks. This change could increase the number of drivers who fall asleep on Georgia roads. This quick guide will provide a few tips on avoiding drowsy driving to help keep Georgia roads accident-free:
- Get enough sleep. Too little sleep can often lead to tiredness and fatigue. Most adults of driving age need between seven and nine hours of sleep per night.
- Plan ahead. On long road trips, give yourself enough time to arrive at your destination and take breaks in case you feel tired.
- Take breaks when you start to feel drowsy. If you take a break and rest you are at less of a risk of falling asleep while driving.
- Try not to drive at night. The lack of light makes drivers more prone to drowsiness.
- Have a copilot. If you are traveling more than two hours at a time ask a passenger to be your copilot. They can help keep you alert. If you are driving alone, use a hands-free device to call someone to talk to help you stay alert.
- Do not drive if you are taking medications that may cause drowsiness.
- Drink a nonalcoholic beverage. Coffee is a great choice since it has caffeine that can help keep you awake. If you do not drink coffee, it is still a good idea to have something to drink with you to help you stay awake.
Contact an Attorney
AAA reports that most people know driving drowsy is dangerous, but they still get behind the wheel. Under Georgia law, negligent drivers–including those who cause an accident due to drowsiness–may be held liable for any injuries they cause. If you have been injured in a car accident and you suspect the other driver was asleep behind the wheel, then you should contact the car accident attorneys at 1Georgia Injury Lawyers, PLLC. We can review the facts of your case, file a personal injury lawsuit, and help you figure out the best strategy for recovering your losses. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment.
