Examining Drowsy Driving in the United States

 Posted on June 23, 2020 in Auto Accidents

When a person gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, they are making a statement that they are in good health and capable of safely operating a vehicle. Unfortunately, many people fail to recognize the tangible impact that lack of sleep can have on a person’s ability to safely drive. The reality of the situation is that drowsy driving is a massive traffic safety issue, throughout the United States. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motor vehicle collision, it is time to speak with an attorney regarding your options.

How Dangerous is Drowsy Driving?

While we all can understand the inherent dangers of falling asleep at the wheel, driving while still conscious but sleep deprived is also incredibly dangerous. According to studies conducted by the National Safety Council, driving while drowsy impacts a person’s reaction time, attention span, and general awareness. The study also found that driving after twenty consecutive hours without sleep is the cognitive equivalent of driving with 0.08 blood alcohol content.

Considering the information mentioned above, it should come as no surprise that the number of collisions caused by drowsy driving is alarmingly high in the United States. According to the National Safety Council, approximately 100,000 drowsy driving accidents occur nationwide, each year. Over 70,000 Americans suffer injuries that require medical attention, due to the negligence of drowsy drivers, on an annual basis. Tragically, approximately 1,550 of those annual injuries result in fatalities.

Proving Negligence

In order to secure the compensation your family needs in the aftermath of a car accident, your attorney will be tasked with proving that the other driver involved acted in a negligent manner. Signs of drowsy driving include swerving from lane to lane, driving at erratic speeds, and general loss of vehicular control. Police reports can be critically important in a personal injury case involving driver negligence. If witnesses were present, witness testimony can corroborate the driver’s negligent or reckless actions.

Contact an Aurora Car Accident Attorney

At Kinnally Flaherty Krentz Loran Hodge & Mazur P.C., we understand the tragedy and pain that can come when a family member is injured in a car accident. As your family heals from the trauma of the collision, our firm will work diligently to secure the compensation you need to pay for medical expenses and potential loss of income. To schedule a free consultation with a knowledgeable Kane County personal injury attorney, contact us today at 630-907-0909.

Sources:

https://www.nsc.org/road-safety/safety-topics/fatigued-driving#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20National%20Highway,1%2C550%20fatalities%20and%2071%2C000%20injuries.&text=The%20researchers%20suggest%20the%20prevalence,than%20350%25%20greater%20than%20reported.