The Dangers of Drowsy Driving in Chicago

A large percentage of Chicago car accidents can be attributed to preventable driving behaviors such as drowsy driving.

Many of us fail to realize the dangers of drowsy driving. A person who nods off behind the wheel presents a huge risk to other drivers. There are no laws to prohibit drowsy driving, but a driver who causes an accident while fatigued can be held liable and made to pay compensation to the victim.

The Risks of Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving has become a major cause of motor vehicle accidents in the United States.

• Driver fatigue leads to over 100,000 accidents every year.
• Every year, on average, 1,550 fatalities are caused by drowsy driving.
• Every year, close to 71,000 people are injured in accidents caused by drowsy driving.
• Drowsy driving costs $12.5 billion to U.S. citizens.

Car Accidents Caused by Drowsy Driving

A drowsy driver is likely to cause an accident by:

• Drifting into the wrong lane.
• Crashing into the vehicle in front.
• Veering onto the wrong side of a divided highway.
• Crossing a double yellow line.
• Failing to respond to an emergency situation because of slowed reflexes.

Drowsy driving accidents are an everyday reality in the United States. Unfortunately, drowsy driving accidents are often serious and lead to severe injuries and even death. A drowsy driver may not be able to apply the brakes in time and may swerve to avoid a crash, leading to a head-on collision. Because such crashes often occur at a high speed, the consequences are often catastrophic. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drowsy driving is more likely to cause serious injuries compared to any other type of non-alcohol related accidents.

Who Is At a Higher Risk?

Even though most of us are aware that drowsy driving can lead to a crash, many of us still choose to drive while fatigued. Studies have shown that certain individuals are more likely to drive while fatigued and are a higher risk of getting involved in a drowsy driving accident.

• Young drivers under 30 years of age.
• Shift workers.
• Those with sleep conditions such as narcolepsy and sleep apnea.
• Those suffering from acute or chronic sleep loss.

When someone decides to get behind the wheel while fatigued, he or she poses a serious risk to other drivers on the road as well. Drivers should look out for signs of fatigue in other drivers and remain careful. Be alert for drowsy drivers while driving at a time when drivers are more likely to be fatigued, such as during early morning and late night.

Chicago Car Accident Attorney

Unlike DUI accidents, it may not be easy to prove a case of drowsy driving. In vehicle wrecks it can be difficult to establish whether it was driver fatigue that caused the crash or something else. In addition, there are no specific laws regarding drowsy driving. If you have been injured by a drowsy driver, contact a Chicago car accident attorney from Willens Law Offices to get legal guidance. Call us at (312) 957-4166 for a free consultation.