How Fatigue Can Affect Driving Ability | Slusser Law Firm

March 11, 2022

Can Fatigue Seriously Impair Your Driving Ability?

Some people do not realize how sleep deprivation can significantly impact your day-to-day functions.


A lack of sleep or inadequate amount of rest can impair your driving, similar to drinking and driving because it leads to:

  • A lack of focus
  • Impaired cognition
  • And poor judgment

All things that can lead to the potential of a motor vehicle crash.


Drowsy Driving Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports approximately 91,000 police-reported crashes involving a drowsy driver in 2017; those crashes resulted in roughly 50,000 injured people and nearly 800 fatalities. Fatigue has detrimental effects on both your physical health and your quality of life; it also poses potential threats to your safety.


Driving while fatigued is a significant issue that has plagued the United States. According to the National Sleep Foundation, approximately 6,400 people die each year in crashes involving a fatigued driver. Drowsy drivers are putting lives at stake by endangering themselves and other drivers on the road.

Impact of Drowsiness While Driving

Did you know roughly 1 in 25 adult drivers report falling asleep while driving in the previous 30 days? Fatigue occurs when you are awake for many hours or have not gotten adequate sleep; untreated sleep disorders and medication can also contribute to fatigue. However, it is no excuse to get behind the wheel because it can result in a severe accident and cause catastrophic injuries.


The significant effects of driver fatigue can include:

  • Slow reaction time when sudden braking or avoidance of road hazards is required
  • Poor judgment and inability to make sound decisions
  • Drifting or swerving lanes
  • Inability to concentrate on the road and becoming easily distracted
  • Experiencing microsleeps or “Nodding off”
  • Sleep deprivation causes a mental impairment similar to drunkenness
  • Inability to remember the last few miles while driving

How To Prevent Drowsy Driving

Driving while fatigued can happen to anyone; it’s essential to take safety precautions to reduce the chances of getting involved in a drowsy driving-related crash.


In order to prevent drowsy driving, make sure to do the following:

  • Take the initiative to obtain a healthy sleep schedule. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society, individuals should aim to get at least seven or more hours of sleep each night.
  • Be cautious of taking prescriptions or over-the-counter medication before getting behind the wheel. Often, adverse reactions or side effects of the medicines cause drowsiness.
  • Avoid driving late at night.
  • If you are driving for an extended period, take frequent breaks.

Contact Car Accident Lawyers In Luzerne County

At Slusser Law Firm your fight is our fight; we will do whatever it takes to get you the results you deserve. If you or a loved one have been involved in a drowsy driving-related crash, our attorneys can help fulfill your legal needs.


Contact us online today or give us a call at to schedule a free initial consultation*; we can help provide you with well-informed legal advice on your situation.


January 20, 2025
The holidays are a time to hit the road and visit loved ones, but winter weather doesn’t always make things easy. Snow, ice, and long road trips can lead to accidents, especially when you’re driving through unfamiliar areas. Getting in an accident is already stressful – and being far from home can make it even more complicated. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself in an accident while traveling out of town – and how Slusser Law Firm can help. Focus on safety first If you’re in an accident, especially in winter conditions, take a moment to check that everyone in your car is safe. Move to a safer location if possible, especially on icy roads where other drivers might be having a hard time stopping. Call emergency services if anyone is injured, and get medical attention as soon as possible if you need it. Health comes first. Collect important details Documenting the accident is key – no matter where you are. Take photos of the accident scene, road conditions, and vehicle damage. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver(s) involved, if any, and get the names and contact details of any witnesses. Know your rights – even out of state Here’s where things get a bit more complicated: If you’re in an accident outside of Pennsylvania, different state laws might come into play. Insurance rules, deadlines for reporting injuries, and liability laws can vary from state to state. While it may sound overwhelming, Slusser Law Firm is here to help you navigate these complexities and make sure you’re covered, even when things aren’t straightforward. Don’t wait to reach out for help After an accident, especially if you’re away from home, you may feel unsure about what to do next. Give us a call. We’ve got experience handling out-of-town cases, and we’ll walk you through every step to make sure your rights are protected. Our team is here to answer your questions and give you peace of mind during the holidays. Dealing with an accident far from home doesn’t have to be a headache. At Slusser Law Firm, we make sure that you’re well-informed and fully supported, no matter where you are. With our help, you can focus on what matters most this season: spending time with family, recovering, and enjoying the holiday spirit. If you have questions about holiday travel safety, accident claims, or anything in between, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re available 24/7 to help you stay prepared and protected.
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