Car Accidents Caused By Sleep Deprivation
Sleep-deprived drivers who choose to go behind the wheel endanger their lives as well as the lives of other motorists. As per the American Automobile Association Traffic Safety Foundation, nearly 40% of all drivers have fallen asleep behind the wheel at a certain point — a terrible and disheartening number for everyone who uses the roads. The odds of confronting a sleep-deprived driver are extremely high.
If you or someone you care about is involved in car accidents caused by the sleep deprivation of another motorist, you might be eligible for compensation. Talk to a Car Accident Attorney at Karnas Law Firm today to discover more regarding your legal rights and options.
How Risky Is Driving While Sleep Deprived?
Sleep deprivation is becoming a more common condition. People frequently start their daily work commute following a lousy night’s sleep — and those who drive long distances frequently strain themselves to travel longer kilometers before stopping.
Drivers are often unaware of how weariness affects their driving responses and concentration on the road.
Every year, one out of every five car accidents is caused by a driver who is sleep-deprived. According to studies, sleep deprivation is equally risky as driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Sleep deprivation can have severe impacts on driving skills, including:
- Falling asleep while driving
- Impaired response time and judgment
- Loss of attention
- Enhanced aggression
- Problems with short-term memory
Who Is The Most Impacted By Drowsy Driving?
Any motorist may suffer from sleep deprivation. However, certain groups are more vulnerable to sleep deprivation since they travel later into the night. These categories include:
- Business travelers
- Industrial drivers, especially truckers
- Shift workers
- Young drivers
- Airline employees
Sleep deprivation frequently has an impact on driving well before a motorist is even aware of the issue. Drivers might not realize they are swerving between lanes or daydreaming, but there are some early warning signs of sleep deprivation.
Drivers can avoid risky sleep deprivation and involvement in a collision by exercising the following:
- Avoid medications or alcohol causing sleep deprivation
- Receive adequate sleep well before a long commute
- Take a 10-minute rest break about every 100 miles traveled
- Constantly fasten your seat belt
Sadly, not all drivers adhere to these recommendations. Drivers who drive while drowsy will easily lose control, slamming into other vehicles, road signage, and other massive objects. The injuries sustained in such accidents can be catastrophic, including spinal and head trauma, deformity, or even fatality. Serious injuries are costly to treat, and victims and their loved ones sometimes struggle to pay for necessary medical care and prolonged therapy.
Why Do You Require An Experienced Car Accident Attorney?
Victims who file and win personal injury cases against a sleep-deprived driver may be entitled to damages for their injuries, including the cost of hospital expenses or lost income.
But, to have a successful claim outcome, victims and their families require the representation of lawyers who understand how to carefully prepare viable claims.
At Karnas Law Firm, the knowledgeable Car Accident Attorneys have vast knowledge and the resources to handle claims involving sleep-deprived drivers. They know how to state the evidence of your claim correctly and build a case strategy to safeguard your interests. Call at (928) 723- 0088 to get started today.