Many motorists are aware of the dangers of drunk driving but do not consider the dangers of drowsy driving. In 2022, more than 690 deaths were attributed to accidentsfrom drowsy-driving-related crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While the number may seem low compared to the 13,524 people who reportedly died in alcohol-related crashes in the U.S. the same year, it is a trend that can be stopped with education and good driving habits.
To evaluate whether an individual is safe to drive or too tired, they should be evaluated as to whether they are exhibiting warning signs of drowsy driving, such as:
Repeated blinking and/or yawning.
An inability to maintain their lane of travel.
Trouble remembering the last few miles of the trip.
Missing an exit or the next intended route.
Nodding off.
Hitting the rumble strips on the side of the road.
To combat this behavior, drivers must evaluate how much sleep they had prior to hitting the open road. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health recommends that adults get seven to nine hours of interrupted sleep per night. While some might debate this number, evidence shows that trying to push the limits and remain awake for extended periods has consequences on the body. For example, studies show that drowsy drivers who have been awake for 20 hours affect reaction times and hand-eye coordination. In fact, tests liken it to having a blood alcohol content of 0.08—the legal limit in most states.
How Can You Avoid a Drowsy Driving Accident?
Drivers should make sure to get enough sleep. Researchers recommend staying off the road between midnight and 6:00 a.m. and late afternoon. Both of these time slots have been identified as being associated with drowsy driving accidents due to the body’s natural reaction to shut down at night for regular sleep and in the late afternoon for a nap to catch up on sleep.
Additionally, drivers are encouraged to take a passenger along for the ride since single drivers are more prone to driving off the road without attempting to stop, causing possible severe bodily or property damage. Inviting a friend could also help to split the driving responsibilities into shifts so one can rest while the other drives.
For those who are already on the road and begin to experience difficulty staying awake, take frequent breaks and avoid using stimulants like coffee or other caffeinated drinks to remain vigilant. Instead, pull off the road and find a safe place to take a 20-minute power nap before attempting to proceed.
It is important to note that many drowsy driving accidents occur as a result of pushing the limits on adequate sleep, but this is more difficult to prove than drunk or impaired driving. Your attorney may use witness statements or driving logs to prove that a driver was driving while drowsy.
The New Brunswick Car Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. Want to Help Protect You
If you or a loved one was involved in an accident where drowsy driving is suspected, look to the New Brunswick car accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. to assist in interpreting the law and defining your rights. For a free consultation, call 732-247-3600 or fill out our online form to connect with attorneys who can help. Located in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.
