Driver Fatigue Can Be a Mean Awakening
Driver fatigue is a common reason for accidents on urban and rural roads. Usually, it is caused by a lack of sleep or medicine. Whatever the reason, fatigued drivers jeopardize road safety. As clocks change, the risk of auto crashes linked to driver fatigue increases in the first weeks of November. Getting a handle on this problem helps drivers as they navigate the roads.
Understanding Driver Fatigue
In essence, driver fatigue is more than just feeling tired. Instead, it is a form of debilitating fatigue, draining your cognitive powers and making it impossible to stay awake. Despite attempts to remain alert, this feeling impairs performance and makes it hard to be alert.
The Grim Statistics
According to the National Sleep Foundation, statistics are frightening. Over 6,400 people die yearly because of falling asleep at the wheel. The reduction in cognitive abilities and reaction time due to drowsy driving caused by more than 18 hours of sleep is equivalent to driving with a BAC level of 0.08, the legal drunk driving limit. Overall, you are at a three times greater risk of car accidents when driving drowsy. This leads to 20 percent of all crashes nationwide.
Who Is Most Likely to Drive While Tired
The numbers are equal across the spectrum from passenger car drivers to commercial truckers. Anyone who works during the swing shift is susceptible to overriding fatigue while driving. This also holds true for new parents, people who work long hours, or those who party late into the night. In November, the early night and morning darkness, along with the time change, interferes with your circadian rhythm. Our body uses this method to get up and fall asleep at certain times of the day. There have been attempts to stop changing the clocks in November and April, but they have failed.
How You Know You Are Too Tired to Drive
Red flags can be used to avoid driving before fatigue and a subsequent accident occur. Some prominent signs are yawning persistently, problems focusing, missing entrances and exits and holding your head up. This is a signal to pull over for a bit and take a nap if possible. Drinking caffeine-laden beverages might stall the fatigue for a bit, but it is not lasting.
So How Do You Combat Driver Fatigue?
Traditionally, drivers have tried opening their windows or playing the radio loudly. Some even sing along. But none of these tricks work for very long. Drivers need to prioritize sleep. If you feel too tired to drive home from work, you might be able to take a quick nap in the office.
Alternatively, plan for breaks to get something to eat or drink if you are taking a long trip. Remember, circadian rhythm makes you most tired mid-afternoon or after midnight. It is better not to leave on a long trip during these hours to save time.
In newer cars, technology may rescue you from the perils of driver’s fatigue. Newer vehicles have lane departure warning systems and collision alerts. Nonetheless, these safety devices are not a substitute for adequate sleep.
Help If a Drowsy Driver Causes Injuries
If another person’s negligence injures you in Erie, Edinboro or Warren, Pennsylvania, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. The Travis Law Firm can schedule a free case review, answer your questions and discuss future options. We have helped many clients and will work hard to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call us at (814) 277-2222 or contact us online.