When you get behind the wheel of your car in California each day you likely don’t think about those around you driving with too little sleep. The fact of the matter is that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Drowsy driving is a serious problem that can cause a driver to struggle with the judgment of the speed and location of other vehicles. Our Los Angeles car crash attorney explains the dangers of drowsy driving in today’s post.
Causes of Drowsy Driving
The causes of drowsy driving are more than just not getting enough sleep before getting behind the wheel. Let’s not hide the fact that drowsy driving is most often caused by a lack of sleep. It is also caused by suffering from untreated medical conditions, which could include untreated sleep disorders. Drowsy driving can also be caused by the incorrect level of medication or the inappropriate mix of medication.
Results of Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving causes drivers to suffer the same results as those who drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The results of drowsy driving include a slower reaction time for maneuvering the vehicle or braking suddenly, an inability to pay attention to the road around them, and the inability to make smart decisions.
Who is Likely to Drive Drowsy?
There are a certain group of people who are more likely to drive drowsy than other groups of drivers. Those most likely to drive drowsy include the following:
- Commercial drivers (buses, trucks, tow trucks, tractor-trailers)
- Drivers who fail to get plenty of sleep before heading out on the road
- People who work shift work (overnight, 24s, or long shifts)
- Drivers who take a medicine that causes drowsiness
- Drivers who have an untreated sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea
Warning Signs of a Drowsy Driver
As you head out on the road each day for work, school, to the doctor, or to run errands you need to know the warning signs of a drowsy driver. Should you happen to notice any of these warning signs you need to safely maneuver your vehicle away from the suspect drowsy driving and call 911 to report the issue.
The most common signs of a drowsy driver include the following:
- Swerving in and out of their lane
- Riding the shoulder
- Hitting the rumble strip
- Extended pauses at stop signs and traffic lights
- Slumped body behind the wheel
- Frequent braking
Report Drowsy Driving
It’s important that you get a good description of the vehicle with the suspected drowsy driver so you can report it. A drowsy driver is just as dangerous as a drunk driver because of their limited abilities and judgment. Grab the make, model, color, and license plate of the vehicle in question and give it to the dispatcher. Also, let the dispatcher know the last location of the vehicle.
Were you injured in a car accident involving a drowsy driver? Contact our experienced and trusted attorney to discuss the accident and your injuries. Schedule a consultation today by calling 310-997-0904.
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