CDC Reveals Drivers Frequently Drive Drowsy Causing Auto Accidents
July 28, 2014
A new study by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that drowsy driving may be a more common problem than previously thought. In a survey of U.S. drivers, one in 25, or about 4%, admitted to falling asleep at the wheel in the last month. The drivers surveyed came from ten states and Puerto Rico, and officials at the CDC say other states show similar drowsy driving rates.
Not surprisingly, the survey showed that drowsy driving is worse among drivers who do not get enough sleep. Insufficient sleep appears to be increasingly common among drivers, many of whom have lengthy commutes. Sleep apnea, a condition linked to obesity, also seems to be on the rise. Statistics show that drowsy driving occurs most often in the early morning and late night, when the body craves sleep.
Drowsy Drivers Can Cause Serious Auto Accidents Even While Awake
Even if drowsy drivers manage to stay awake behind the wheel, they are still a potential hazard to themselves or others on the road. According to the National Sleep Foundation, drivers who are not well rested show poor judgment, have impaired vision, and cannot process information or react to potential hazards quickly. Drowsy drivers may also be more aggressive and less vigilant about their surroundings.
Drowsy driving causes up to 7,500 fatal auto accidents each year in the United States, many of which are single car accidents. According to the survey, some groups are more at risk for fatal drowsy driving auto accidents. Those include drivers under the age of 25, males, binge drinkers, people who do not wear seat belts, and people who regularly sleep less than five hours a night. Drinking while drowsy can make driving especially dangerous, as it takes much less alcohol to impair a driver’s abilities. Alcohol makes drowsy drivers even less capable of assessing their surroundings and responding to road conditions.
In order to operate a vehicle safely, drivers must be alert and focused. Drivers who find themselves losing focus or having trouble keeping their eyes open should pull over and rest immediately. Driving drowsy puts everyone on the road at risk of an auto accident, which can result in serious injury or death. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an auto accident involving a drowsy driver, an experienced personal injury attorney can help determine who is at fault for your injuries and pursue the appropriate legal action against them.
Nerenberg Law Associates: Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers Representing Victims of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Nerenberg Law Associates represent victims of motor vehicle accidents caused by negligent drivers. Our injury lawyers will fight to obtain compensation for your car accident injuries. Call us today at 215-569-9100 or contact us online to review your case with a qualified personal injury lawyer.