Drowsy driving often goes under the radar, but it is a significant issue in the U.S. In fact, studies indicate that drowsiness contributes to around 20% of all fatal road traffic collisions.
What are the main causes of drowsy driving?
Sleep deprivation
Sleep deprivation is one of the leading causes of drowsy driving. People often drive out of necessity and they may not be rested well enough before setting off. Those who commute in the car each day need to ensure that they have slept enough the night before.
Long working hours
A person may enter work feeling full of energy. After a long working day, it is rare for people to feel like this. Long shifts cause tiredness, and the journey home can become a drowsy one.
Long working hours are particularly relevant to those who drive professionally. For example, truck drivers are restricted in terms of how long they can drive for in one go. These working restrictions are in place to prevent accidents caused by drowsiness.
Other factors
There are several other factors that can cause drowsiness. These include:
- Stress
- The darker days and nights in winter
- Medications. Drivers should be careful to read the side effects of mediation and consult with a doctor if these are unclear.
While drowsiness isn’t usually deliberate, it can still be negligent. A drowsy driver is much more likely to make errors that put other road users in danger. If you have been injured and believe that another driver was negligent, personal injury compensation may be available. Seek legal guidance to find out more about this.