March 16, 2017
asleep at wheel


asleep at wheel

This  “Spring Forward” adjustment can take days or weeks to get accustomed to. Since being tired can have a similar impact on a driver’s ability to safely navigate the roadway as alcohol, the CHP is trying to raise awareness about the dangers of drowsy driving. It’s hard enough to find the time to get a full night’s sleep without losing an hour, so the CHP wants drivers to know the signs of drowsy driving and how to avoid preventable tragedies.

Drowsy Driving Crash Statistics

  • In 2016, 33 people were killed in crashes caused by fatigued or sleepy drivers on California roadways.
  • More than 3,800 people were injured in wrecks caused by fatigued or sleepy drivers in California in 2016.
  • 60 percent of Americans polled have driven while sleepy.
  • 37 percent of Americans polled admitted to actually having fallen asleep behind the wheel.
  • Nationwide, 55 percent of all crashes where a driver fell asleep involved drivers 25 years old and younger.

Drowsy Driving Prevention

The National Sleep Foundation (NSF) has a variety of tips for drivers to avoid getting behind the wheel while drowsy. Additionally, they also have recommendations about what you should do if you’re in danger of driving fatigued. First, they recommend getting enough sleep. Adults need between seven and nine hours each night. Additionally, nobody should drive if they’ve been awake for 24 hours or more. Switching places with a passenger is a good idea, or taking a coffee break can also help with alertness behind the wheel. Finally, if you’re fatigued, drowsy or sleepy behind the wheel, find a rest stop or somewhere to stay for the night and get some sleep. It could save your life or the lives of others.

Drowsy Drivers in San Diego

Drowsy driving doesn’t sound that serious, but it is. When you’re drowsy, your reaction times and cognitive abilities are diminished. Even if you do manage to stay awake behind the wheel, you could still get into an accident due to decreased reaction times or other diminished driving skills. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drowsy driver in or around the San Diego or Central Coast areas, contact Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation.

