Drowsiness behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous risks on the road. Drowsy driving causes thousands of crashes each year, many of them serious or fatal. Recognizing the symptoms of driver fatigue and how to avoid it can help you stay safe while driving or traveling.
If you or a loved one have been hit by a drowsy driver, contact our Castle Rock driver fatigue lawyer to file a claim and seek compensation. Schedule your free consultation today.
How Common Are Drowsy Driving Accidents?
Drowsy driving is extremely prevalent. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that drowsy drivers are involved in nearly 91,000 crashes annually, leading to about tens of thousands of injuries and hundreds of fatalities.
However, experts believe the actual numbers could be higher, as fatigue is difficult to detect after a crash and often goes unreported.
Drowsy driving can impact all drivers, not just commercial truck drivers or shift workers. Young drivers, especially teens and college students, are among the most likely to drive while fatigued.
What Causes Driver Fatigue?
To be sure, fatigue is often connected to a lack of sleep. However, it also can be triggered by lifestyle factors, medical conditions, and even medications.
Common causes include:
- Inadequate or poor-quality sleep
- Medications that induce drowsiness
- Long work hours or night shifts
- Holding multiple jobs or juggling inconsistent shifts
- Long-haul trucking or commercial driving schedules
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Caffeine, music, or other stimuli can offer temporary relief for drowsiness. However, they’re no substitute for adequate rest.
Warning Signs of Driver Fatigue
Studies show that driving while sleep-deprived can impair your alertness just as much as alcohol or drugs. Being able to recognize when you’re too tired to drive is essential for staying safe on the road.
The following warning signs may indicate that you are experiencing dangerous levels of fatigue:
- Struggle to remember the last few miles driven
- Miss traffic signs or exit ramps
- Catch yourself drifting between lanes
- Hit rumble strips or jerk the steering wheel back into your lane
- Yawn frequently or blink excessively
- Feel your head nodding or eyelids drooping
- Have trouble staying focused
If you notice these signs, it’s time to pull over in a safe location and rest. Continuing to drive could result in a catastrophic accident—for you and everyone else on the road.
Avoiding Drowsy Driving
Driver fatigue is preventable. Avoiding drowsy driving requires good habits and planning, especially before and during long trips.
Here are some ways to stay safe:
- Get enough rest before driving (around 7–8 hours of sleep)
- Take scheduled breaks every two hours or 100 miles
- Switch drivers, if possible, to avoid long solo drives
- Avoid alcohol and sedative medications before driving
- Pull over and nap for 15–30 minutes if you begin to feel drowsy
You shouldn’t ignore the warning signs. Recognize when you’re too tired to continue and commit to resting before getting back on the road.
What Are My Legal Options if a Fatigued Driver Caused My Crash?
Accidents involving drowsy drivers can lead to serious injury, permanent disability, and extensive financial hardship. Victims of such crashes may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault driver through a personal injury claim.
If you were injured by a drowsy driver, you may be able to recover money for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repairs and property damage
- Out-of-pocket accident-related expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
The best way to understand your options after a drowsy driving accident is to contact an experienced Castle Rock driver fatigue attorney. Your lawyer can investigate the crash, identify signs of drowsy driving, and help you hold the at-fault party accountable.
Contact Casares Injury Law today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your claim.