Attorneys often talk about fatigued driving on their blog, and there is a major reason behind that – it is more widespread than you might think. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), fatigued driving claims at least 6,000 lives every year. And if you count in factors such as holiday rush, concerns and wrecked sleep schedules around COVID-19, and it would be safe to assume that the problem is pertinent.
Below, we shall explain what fatigued driving is, how much of a risk it poses and how you can avoid a potential wrongful death scenario.
What Is Fatigued Driving?
According to The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), fatigued driving happens when someone operating a motor vehicle gets too tired to stay alert. The lack of alertness can impair the driver’s ability to think and react, and reduce their vigilance. It might also lead to the driver falling behind the wheel.
Who Is At Risk of Fatigued Driving?
Technically, anyone who is driving in a tired state is at risk of fatigued driving. According to our motorcycle accident lawyer, there are certain groups of people that are more likely to be in that position. These include:
- Those suffering from untreated sleep disorders
- Those who work on long shifts
- Those who are on behavior-altering medication, and may be suffering from its side-effects
What Are The Signs Of Fatigued Driving?
- Excessive yawning
- Lessened ability to keep your eyes open
- Tendency to “nod off” and difficulty in keeping your head up
- Forgetting driving the last few miles
- Driving too close to nearby cars
- Missing turns or road signs
- Going off the road into different lanes
How Can You Avoid Fatigued driving?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s suggestions to prevent fatigued driving, there are plenty of ways to avoid fatigued driving. These include:
- Getting at least 7 hours of sleep (for adults) and 8 hours (for teenagers)
- Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
- Getting treatment for any potential sleep problems or disorders
- Avoid taking medications or drinking prior to driving
The AASM also lists a variety of tips, which include:
- Avoid driving for too prolonged periods
- Drive with a companion, if possible
- Have a partner you can take turns driving with
- If you are too tired, try pulling over in a safe place where you can take a nap
- Take some caffeine for a quick boost
- Try to arrange a ride home
We’re Here to Help
Looking for a truck accident attorney in North Charleston? Look no further than John Price Law Firm, LLC. We offer a free consultation and have a 24-hour answering service. We are at five convenient locations and three others in South Carolina locations – all of which are staffed with attorneys and support staff. We can also arrange meetings at your home or the hospital. Call John Price Law Firm, LLC at (843) 632-5672.
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