The Risks of Drowsy Driving



Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to serious consequences. But many drivers are unaware of the fact that driving while drowsy poses the same risk to themselves and other drivers and passengers.

Like drunk driving, drowsy driving has been shown to increase the risk of automobile accidents. Research suggests that the loss of sleep can be equivalent to consuming alcohol.

Understanding the risks of drowsy driving can protect you and your family. It also keeps others safe and prevents the consequences that result from minor or serious car accidents.



The Growing Concern Around Drowsy Driving

The number of accidents resulting from drowsy driving has caused growing concern among the public and legislators.

When driving while impaired, processing incoming information becomes more difficult. Drowsy drivers have also been observed to exhibit higher levels of aggression.

The research into drowsy driving emphasizes the need for today’s drivers to be as alert as possible when operating a motor vehicle. Falling asleep at the wheel is a problem that occurs more often than many realize.


Road Risks

Driving while drowsy can lead to serious injuries and even death. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released statistics indicating that drowsiness is responsible for about 100,000 car wrecks each year.

Many of these cases aren’t reported properly given that most police officers aren’t trained to identify an accident that resulted from drowsy driving. As a result, many of the statistics related to this problem may be underestimated.

In addition, the NHTSA defines impaired driving as including cases where drivers operate vehicles without sufficient rest. This is in addition to those cases that involve the influence of alcohol or drugs as well as driving while distracted.

Georgia has taken part in the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) to help take the steps needed to educate drivers and reduce the risks of impaired driving.

Victims of these accidents may be left with serious injuries and permanent disabilities. This can lead to a decrease in the quality of life and ability to earn an income for these individuals.

This means that drivers who are at fault due to fatigue can be held liable for these and other damages that include a wrongful death claim, funeral expenses, and the loss of companionship for loved ones.

Legal Consequences

Cases that involve drowsy driving can lead to civil liability in the state of Georgia. The law states that all involved motorists and passengers can hold the driver who is at fault liable in personal injury and wrongful death claims.

In some cases, employers may be held accountable when their employees are required to drive long hours resulting in fatigue and drowsiness.

Consulting with an attorney helps you determine the level of damages that you may be compensated for. This ensures that your rights are fully protected under Georgia law and that all liable parties are held accountable.

Plaintiffs must demonstrate that another driver’s negligence resulted in the car accident. They need to gather the evidence that supports their claim in order to maximize their compensation.

Drowsy driving affects all drivers and passengers. It increases the risk of injury and death along with resulting in serious penalties for those who are at fault. Understanding these risks is the first step to making the roads safer for you and your family.

If you or someone you know have been injured because of someone else’s carelessness, contact CP Law Group today at 1-844-5-I’M-HURT (1-844-546-4878) to get the help you deserve. Contact Us.

Resources

Tuck’s Drowsy Driving Guide: https://www.tuck.com/drowsy-driving/