All motorists must ensure that they’re able to drive safely before they get behind the wheel. Part of this means that they shouldn’t try to drive if they’re too fatigued. One issue with this is that some people think that they can drive even if they’re drowsy.
Fatigued driving is a preventable issue because people can rest if they’re tired or drowsy. They can also utilize other forms of transportation, such as public transportation or rideshares.
What are the causes of fatigued driving?
Lack of sleep is the primary cause of fatigued driving. The longer a person goes without sleep, the worse the effects become. By the time a person goes 20 hours without sleep, they are likely going to suffer the same effects as someone who has a blood alcohol concentration of .08%, which is legally intoxicated.
There are also other causes of fatigue that are often overlooked. These include working swing shifts and overnights because those individuals may be awake at times when the human body would normally expect sleep. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and sleep apnea, and medications like antihistamines and opioids can also lead to drowsiness.
Drivers who are fatigued may have slowed reaction times and other effects that negatively impact their ability to drive. They may cause crashes that can lead to catastrophic injuries that require immediate medical attention. The victims might opt to pursue a claim for compensation, which is likely best handled with the assistance of an individual who’s familiar with these matters.
