Driving while intoxicated could dramatically increase the chances of an accident on Louisiana roads. Many drivers understand the dangers and avoid getting behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Not everyone realizes the dangers of drowsy driving, however. Choosing to drive while too tired to concentrate comes with significant risks similar to driving while under the influence. Drowsiness may sap a driver’s concentration and possibly cause a fatal accident.
Drowsy driving remains a concern
Drowsy driving might be a worse problem than many realize. A 2014 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study revealed that 150,000 people claimed to have fallen asleep behind the wheel “at least once in the past 30 days.”
Lack of sleep contributes to many drowsy driving accidents. Sadly, fatalities occur as a result. The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration does not have exact figures about all drowsy driving-related accidents, but the available data is sobering: 2017 saw nearly 800 fatalities due to drowsy driving, and a four-year span logged more than 4,100 deaths.
However, the public might not be aware of how problematic drowsy driving is. Speeding, driving under the influence, distracted driving and various moving violations may cause more accidents, but drowsy driving presents a threat to others.
Anyone could become a drowsy driver
Truck drivers and ride-sharing drivers may come to mind when discussing the topic of drowsy driving. These professionals spend a significant amount of time on the road, which puts them at risk of becoming tired. However, anyone could suffer from drowsy driving. What if someone commutes 15 miles home on the highway after working a double shift on a “regular” job? Fatigue may lead to the driver dozing off at high speeds. One possible result might involve the passed-out driver veering into oncoming traffic and causing a fatal collision.
A person who drives while too tired to operate a vehicle might end up found negligent for any resulting accidents. The possibility of facing a wrongful death suit exists.
Drowsy driving contributes to scores of motor vehicle accidents in the United States. A person injured by a drowsy driver may want to sue for damages with the help of an experienced attorney.
