On the road, drivers who fall asleep or struggle to pay attention due to fatigue pose a serious threat. Some people recognize dangerous levels of drowsiness but disregard traffic safety issues and drive regardless, while others do not realize the extent to which fatigue affects their driving abilities. Either way, those who cause drowsy driving accidents should answer for their actions if the accident results in property damage, injuries or death.
It is pivotal for drivers to go over risks that can lead to drowsiness behind the wheel.
What causes drowsy driving?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration sheds light on some of the different reasons why drowsy driving happens. For example, some drivers struggle to stay awake and operate a vehicle due to inadequate sleep, but there are many other risks associated with drowsy driving. A strenuous shift and driving at times when one feels sleepy (such as late at night, early in the morning or in the late afternoon) can cause driver fatigue.
Drivers should also understand that alcohol, certain medications and driving for long periods of time can lead to drowsy driving.
What are the consequences of drowsy driving?
When a driver falls asleep behind the wheel, they could veer into oncoming traffic and cause a deadly head-on accident. Many people also suffer debilitating injuries after a drowsy driver hits them. Lost wages, immobility, mental trauma, medical bills, funeral costs and many other serious challenges can come up in the wake of a traffic accident caused by a drowsy driver. Sadly, too many drowsy driving collisions keep occurring.