According to the American Council on Science and Health, sleep deprivation is a common cause of fatal automobile accidents. According to a recent study, sleep loss is a significant risk factor when operating a vehicle. According to the study, the risk of getting into an accident increases by 150 percent when driving under the influence of sleep deprivation. In addition, people that sleep only six hours per night are 33 percent more likely to get into a car accident.
According to researchers, individuals that are drowsy are not likely to recognize that they should not be operating a vehicle. In addition, driving while drowsy presents the same risk of danger as driving while intoxicated. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2014, drowsy driving claimed the lives of 846 people. Currently, the NHTSA is working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP) to draw awareness to the dangers associated with driving while drowsy.
The CDCP reported that the drivers most likely to drive while drowsy include:
- Commercial truckers;
- Bus drivers;
- Parents;
- Shift workers, such as nurses or police officers;
- Drivers with a sleep disorder, and
- Drivers using medication that results in drowsiness.
Signs of drowsiness include:
- Drooping eyes;
- Yawning;
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering;
- Missing your destination; and
- Drifting.
While many people cannot refrain from driving while drowsy due to a job or other responsibilities, it is important to pull over if you are feeling tired. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact a Brooklyn auto accident lawyer who is experienced in handling these matters. Goldberg Sager & Associates is experienced in dealing with all aspects of personal injury and is dedicated to helping clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case. Contact the New York City auto injury lawyers at Goldberg Sager & Associates at 718-645-6677 for a free phone consultation.
