Most of us have done it at some point in our lives–found ourselves nodding off behind the wheel. In fact, approximately 1 in 25 adults have reported falling asleep at the wheel in the last 30 days. But the frequency of this event does not negate its seriousness. Drowsy driving was the cause of approximately 72,000 crashes in 2013, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with as many 6,000 lives lost. Here’s what you need to know about drowsy driving and how you can avoid becoming another statistic. If you are involved in an accident caused by drowsy driving, contact an auto accident attorney in Lafayette.
Know If You’re a High Risk
Certain people are more likely to drive while drowsy than others. This includes workers on night shifts, commercial truck drivers, people with untreated sleeping disorders, and individuals who take medication that causes drowsiness. If you fit into any of these categories, you need to take extra precautions, especially when driving long distances or driving in the evening. If you’re planning a road trip, take a friend with you to help you stay awake at the wheel. As all accident attorneys will warn you, if you feel even a little fatigued while driving, find a safe place where you can pull over and rest.
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Early Signs of Drowsiness
Everyone can be affected by drowsiness while driving, but the last thing you want to do is wait until it’s a serious problem before pulling over. Rather than waiting until you start nodding off, be on the lookout for the early signs of drowsiness while driving. This includes frequent yawning, rapid blinking, and drifting from your lane. If you have trouble remembering the last several miles that you’ve driven, then this can also be a sign that your mind is drifting towards sleep. Pull over as soon as possible if you notice any of these signs.
Driving drowsy can impair your judgment and delay reaction times, which is extremely dangerous, so take every precaution necessary to avoid driving while fatigued. If you are involved in an accident caused by drowsy driving, contact a car accident attorney in Lafayette for assistance.
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