How serious of a problem is driver fatigue?

Driver fatigue can be a serious problem on the roadways. Legal resources are available to help victims who are harmed, which is why victims should get answers to their legal questions.

Driver fatigue, or drowsy driving, is a serious danger on roadways throughout the country and can lead to serious accidents. Drowsy driving occurs when a driver has not gotten enough sleep; it can also refer to fatigue that results from a driver who is overworked, has an untreated sleep disorder, is taking certain medications or has been drinking alcohol. While falling asleep at the wheel is certainly dangerous, driving while too tired to safely operate a vehicle can also result in serious consequences.

Drowsy driving can make drivers less able to pay attention to the roadway; reduces their reaction times if they need to respond suddenly, such as braking or steering; and may impact the driver’s ability to make good decisions. A reduced response time can be a serious concern for any driver and a danger to those they share the roadway with. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that an estimated one in 25 drivers report having fallen asleep while behind the wheel in the past 30 days.

The dangers of drowsy driving and driver fatigue are real. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated that, in 2013, 72,000 car accidents, 44,000 injuries, and 800 deaths were caused by drowsy driving. It is possible that up to 6,000 fatal car accidents are caused each year by driver fatigue. Victims injured in car accidents by a drowsy driver or other negligent driver should be familiar with the legal resources available to help them recover the damages they have suffered.