If you encounter a drowsy driver on the road, you could become involved in a devastating accident. Many drivers do not understand how dangerous drowsy driving actually is, and this behavior accounts for many traffic accident injuries and deaths each year.
While many drivers know that drinking alcohol or using a phone behind the wheel can lead to a crash, some fail to realize the extent to which fatigue can interfere with driving abilities. At a high rate of speed, losing focus or dozing off for a few seconds can prove deadly.
Drowsiness and traffic accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration goes over some of the ways in which drowsy driving increases the odds of a collision on the road. For example, if a driver falls asleep for just five seconds, they can travel the length of a football field (100 yards) at 55 miles per hour. Drowsiness can lead to impaired cognition that interferes with driving, and drowsy drivers often struggle to notice hazards on the road.
Statistics on drowsy driving accidents
The NHTSA also shares statistics on drowsy driving, which estimate that law enforcement received reports of roughly 91,000 traffic accidents involving drowsy drivers in 2017. These accidents resulted in 50,000 injuries, according to estimates. Additionally, they state that experts believe these numbers are too low and that the actual number of drowsy driving accidents and injuries is even higher.
If a drowsy driver caused you to suffer an injury, you need to firmly stand up for your rights. Gather evidence related to the accident and hold the drowsy driver accountable.