Have you ever been on the road and thought that the person behind you was driving dangerously? Perhaps you drove past someone whose eyes were closing and it was clear that they were getting drowsy? Well, you’re not alone.
Drowsy driving is a very real problem, and it can take your life or the life of others if it’s not taken seriously. There have been several tragic cases where it was the cause of an accident that resulted in the loss of a life or many lives.
Read on, and we’ll cover everything you need to know about drowsy driving and the dangers that come with it.
Table of Contents
Injuries and Fatalities
When drivers are sleepy while driving, they can veer off the road, crash into other vehicles, or even drive off the road. It is estimated that that kind of accident is responsible for two percent of all crashes and that one in every six fatal crashes. It is most common among young adults and people who work long hours or has irregular work schedules, but, it can also happen to anyone, at any time.
It is important to be aware of the signs of drowsy driving, which include yawning, heavy eyelids, trouble keeping your head up, and trouble focusing on the road. If you are feeling any of these symptoms, it is important to pull over and take a break. And if you were injured or someone you know has been killed because of this car accident, you can find a car wreck lawyer to help you.
What Are the Causes
One of the most common is not getting enough sleep. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body doesn’t have time to rest and recharge and this can lead to fatigue and drowsiness.
Medication can also be the reason because many over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause drowsiness or fatigue. If you’re taking medication, be sure to read the labels and talk to your doctor about any potential side effects. Lastly, even a small amount of alcohol, especially when driving at night.
How to Avoid
The first step is to get a good night’s sleep before you start your journey and it is recommended to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night. If you’re feeling tired, take a nap for a few minutes to re-energize.
Drink coffee or other caffeinated drinks to stay alert and keep you awake. Drive during the day when you’re likely to be more alert. Avoid driving late at night or early in the morning.
Prevent Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is a serious problem that can lead to devastating consequences but it is preventable. If you start to feel tired, stop, rest, or take a quick sleep before you continue driving.
By taking some simple precautions, and with this guide, you can help keep yourself and everyone else on the road safe. It’s not worth risking your life or the lives of others.
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