Drowsy driving is a very dangerous problem that occurs each and every day on our roadways.  This issue causes many injuries and takes numerous lives each year. When a driver has not slept enough and hits the roadways for any reason, they might be putting other lives at risk, especially when a severe accident occurs. Nobody knows when sleepiness will take hold of their bodies and put others at risk. Being injured in an accident due to a drowsy driver can be a difficult thing to experience but you have rights and options.

In 2017 alone, drowsy driving has claimed the lives of 795 people in the entire U.S. By understanding how these accidents occur and working to prevent them, lives can be saved on our roadways.

When Drowsy Driving Accidents Are Most Common

There are times when drowsy driving is most prominent. Most crashes take place between midnight and 6 a.m. when drivers are the sleepiest, or in the late afternoon. People are more likely to experience these accidents around this time due to the fact that they experience a dip in their internal clock that regulates their need for sleep.

Though the majority of drowsy driving accidents include a single driver and no passengers, others do. Some involve multiple vehicles and even take lives due to the severity of the accidents. Drivers who drive drowsy are more likely to run off the road at a high rate of speed and there is usually no evidence of braking. These accidents are most likely to happen on rural roads and highways.

Tips for Staying Alert and Avoiding Drowsy Driving Accidents

• Receive about seven to eight hours of sleep at night, which is recommended for adults by experts.
• Before you engage in a long family trip in the car, make sure that you are always starting out with a good night’s sleep. You could be putting your family or others at risk if you do not get enough sleep before a road trip.
• Teenagers are some of the most likely to be involved in drowsy driving accidents due to the fact that many do not get the sleep that is recommended. Teens should be advised to stay off the roads until they are well-rested.
• Never drink and drive. Not only is the actual act dangerous, but the consumption of alcohol can increase drowsiness and cause a driver to fall asleep at the wheel.
• Make sure that you do not take any medications that can increase drowsiness before you head out on a trip.

The Aftermath of a Drowsy Driving Accident 

Drowsy driving is a negligent act on Florida roadways that causes many injuries and fatalities each year. Because of this, it is imperative that you have a skilled car accident attorney on your side every step of the way as you navigate the legal system. Our attorneys at Sheftall & Associates understand how challenging it can be to face the aftermath of an accident on your own, especially when you know that another party is at fault. Please contact our skilled accident attorneys at 904-647-2296 to find out what options are available for you at this time.