You may often hear about the different problems that exist on the road and how they can cause significant injuries in the event of a crash. Three of the most common are speeding, drunk driving, and distracted driving. However, many people dismiss one big issue: drowsy driving.
Drowsy driving can result in many of the same symptoms that exist with other acts of negligence such as driving while intoxicated and texting while driving. A recent study has shown that this is a bigger problem than many others have thought.
What the Study Says
The study was performed by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety which talked about the potential dangers of drowsy driving. Before the study, federal estimates indicated that drowsy driving was responsible for anywhere from 1-2% of accidents.
According to the study, however, those numbers are actually around 9.5%, making it roughly four times more dangerous than originally thought. Of all accidents, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates over 300,000 were due to drowsy driving.
The Dangers
The study used dashcam footage to analyze the three minutes prior to a crash occurring. In that time, seeing how many people were significantly yawning, closing their eyes for a prolonged period of time, and falling asleep at the wheel was alarming.
The signs of drowsy driving include the following:
- Sudden and erratic braking
- Slowing down and speeding up
- Swerving between lanes
- Ignoring traffic signs and lights
- Tailgating
Don’t drive if you catch yourself yawning often, experience highway hypnosis, drift into other lanes, or your head begins to nod as if you are falling asleep.
At Slusser Law Firm, we know that this is one of the most dangerous things someone can do on the road. Drowsy driving is negligence. If you suffer harm, know that our Luzerne County car accident lawyers are ready to help you navigate the claims-filing process and safeguard your rights every step of the way.
Call our firm today at (570) 405-9953 and speak with a lawyer about your rights.
