Understanding Driver Fatigue
Driving while intoxicated can be deadly, but they say that driving while tired can be just as bad as driving drunk. You may think that being a little tired is no big deal, but before you know it, you could be shutting your eyes while driving and even falling asleep, causing a major accident.
Fatigue is nothing to laugh at. It is a serious issue that can affect health, safety, and quality of life. Fatigue can be caused by many factors, such as a late or long shift at work, having a new baby, staying out late for an event, or having a long drive for the holidays. No matter what causes it, the outcome can include impaired cognition and performance, motor vehicle crashes, workplace accidents, and health consequences.
Drowsy driving crashes occur primarily between midnight and 6 a.m. They often involve a single driver (and no passengers) running off the road at a high rate of speed. These accidents also frequently occur on rural roads and highways. Truck drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents involving fatigued driving, although crashes can happen to anyone who is overly tired.
Tips for Preventing Fatigue While Driving
Here are some things you can do to prevent fatigue while driving:
- Know the signs. If you are yawning frequently, feel like closing your eyes, have blurred vision, or your eyes feel heavy, you’re getting fatigued. Pull over and take a nap before you get into a crash.
- Get adequate sleep. Our body goes through a circadian rhythm, which means it is naturally drowsy between midnight and 6 a.m. as well as between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The risk of a crash increases during these times, so be sure to get enough sleep before you get behind the wheel.
- Take a nap. If you are feeling sleepy during the day and need to drive later, take a quick nap. The ideal nap is between 10 and 45 minutes. A good nap is better than a cup of coffee.
- Check your medications. Medications should have a warning label stating that they can cause drowsiness. Avoid taking certain medications before driving, such as sleeping pills, allergy medicines, cold medicines, and tranquilizers.
- Eat a healthy diet. Eating at odd times or skipping meals can mess up your sleep and digestion, making you feel more tired than usual. Try to eat before going to bed so you’re not sleeping on an empty stomach.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Driving while overly tired can have a huge effect on motorists and others on the road. It is important that drivers are well-rested and alert while driving.
If you are involved in a crash, there may be many factors involved. Fatigue may be one of them. Don’t pay for someone else’s negligence. Get the help you need from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call 281-347-3247.
Source:
fmcsa.dot.gov/safety/driver-safety/cmv-driving-tips-driver-fatigue
