Drivers have to ensure they’re able to drive safely before they get into a vehicle. One preventable hazard that they must always avoid is fatigue. A driver who’s too drowsy can experience symptoms that are similar to those of a person who’s legally intoxicated.
The effects of a lack of sleep don’t happen quickly. It takes approximately 20 hours without sleep for a person to have the same effects as a person who has a blood alcohol concentration of .08%, which is legally impaired.
Lack of sleep isn’t the only thing that can cause a driver to become too drowsy to drive. Working overnights or swing shifts, taking certain medications and having specific medical conditions are also contributing factors. Drivers who have any of these factors present should honestly evaluate their abilities before getting on the road.
Quick fixes don’t work
Some drivers may assume that they can use hacks and quick fixes to stay awake while they drive. Things like drinking caffeine, turning the stereo up and opening the windows can provide a short window of alertness. Drivers should use that time to get somewhere safe so they don’t cause a crash.
Victims of fatigued driving crashes often suffer catastrophic injuries, some of which are fatal. Injured victims and the loved ones of those who die may opt to pursue a compensation claim. These can help to offset the expenses related to the wreck, but time is limited to get this filed. Working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial for these victims.
