Drowsy driving is a prevalent issue that often gets overshadowed by other driving hazards like drunk driving or texting while driving. However, the effects of driving while fatigued are similarly dangerous and deserve our attention. How common is fatigued driving?
Drowsy driving by the numbers
Drowsy driving is a significant issue that contributes to a considerable number of vehicle accidents each year. In fact, crashes involving fatigued drivers result in an estimated 50,000 injuries and 800 deaths each year in the United States. The true number may also be higher because fatigue can be more difficult to track than other factors.
Many people also acknowledge that they have gotten behind the wheel while dangerously fatigued. Around one in four drivers admit to having difficulty staying awake behind the wheel in the past month, and 4 percent of drivers have admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel. This means that fatigued drivers are a common roadway risk, especially at night.
How serious is the problem of fatigued driving?
Driving while fatigued can have a significant impact on drivers. In fact, going more than 20 hours without sleep has similar effects to driving above the legal limit for alcohol. Drivers may respond more slowly to hazards, have difficulty paying attention and make poor decisions. They may even fall asleep while on the road. All these challenges triple the risk of an accident for fatigued drivers.
Unfortunately, drivers do not only put themselves at risk when driving while fatigued. They also put other drivers and passengers in danger. It is essential for people harmed in a collision to know that they can hold drowsy drivers accountable for their actions behind the wheel.
Drowsy driving is a common and dangerous factor on the road. Understanding the risks and your rights can help you protect yourself from the impact of driver fatigue.