A new study was recently published by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety that stated up to 21% of fatal car accidents involved a drowsy driver. This report was published to refute a different study that stated only 1% to 3% of motor vehicle accidents were affected by a drowsy driver.
The study looked at over 14,000 car accidents and proved that a drowsy driver contributed to more than just 3% of accidents. This new study suggests the following:
- Drowsy driving was a factor in 6% of all car accidents where a vehicle was being towed away from the scene
- 7% of all accidents involving an injury were affected by a drowsy driver
- Drowsy driving affected 13% of all motor vehicle accidents involving a fatality
What are the signs of drowsy driving?
Understanding the signs of drowsy driving can help you to pull over your vehicle before you become a dangerous driver. If you start to exhibit any of the following signs, it’s best to let somebody else drive your ride:
- Yawning
- Daydreaming
- Drifting from one lane to another
- Struggling to keep your eyes open
- Struggling to remember the last few miles of your drive
If these signs become evident, you should pull over your vehicle to get some caffeine or stop to get some sleep before continuing. Those between the ages of 18 and 29 are more susceptible to drowsy driving, along with shift workers, parents and those with sleep apnea.
How can you prevent drowsy driving?
The last thing you want is to find yourself on the other side of a courtroom with a car accident attorney in Las Vegas trying to prove why you were at fault for driving drowsy. This could land you in jail or you may be held liable for the damages caused in the wreck.
Preventing drowsy driving is always a smart thing to do. About 10% of drivers have fallen asleep at the wheel, but you don’t have to be one of them. Use these tips to ensure you don’t end up driving drowsy and causing an accident:
- Alternate drivers when possible
- Get enough sleep the night before a long drive
- Drink caffeine if you start to feel sleepy and allow about 30 minutes for the caffeine to kick in
- Carry extra cash for a hotel room and pull over for a nap or a good night of sleep before continuing
Hopefully these tips will keep you alert and awake behind the wheel. For more information, contact Laura Hunt today at (702) 450-4868.