The Dangers of Drowsy Driving

 Tired or drowsy driving is a serious problem in the United States. With the holidays approaching, sleepy drivers tend to increase on our roadways. Recently, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held a forum on drowsy driving in Washington D.C. According to an ABC News report, officials who convened this forum said one of the biggest problems is that people tend to underestimate how tired they are.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAA) estimates that about 40 percent of drivers admit to falling asleep at the wheel. In fact, studies show that losing just two hours of sleep in one night can affect a driver’s reaction time by 20 percent. Another study suggested that 20 percent of all car accidents – one out of every five accidents – involves a drowsy or tired driver.

New Vehicle Technology
Different manufacturers are trying to develop new technologies to counter the problem of drowsy driving. Researchers at Virginia Tech are assessing drivers for alertness and signs of fatigue. Cameras are also being tested to see if they can look at a person’s face and find signs of exhaustion or drowsiness. Some cars have already been equipped with technology that can sense a driver drifting onto another lane.
What Can You Do to Prevent Drowsy Driving?
A number of New Yorkers are killed or injured each year as a result of negligent drivers who may be driving while drowsy or tired. Here are some of the steps drivers can take to prevent drowsiness:
• Get a good night’s sleep. It is recommended that drivers get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night.
• If you are going to drive long distance, take a companion along, who can help look for early warning signs of fatigue. Passengers should stay awake to talk to the driver.
• Schedule your breaks every 100 miles or once every two hours.
• Avoid alcohol and medications that may impair your driving.
• Consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment if you suffer from frequent daytime sleepiness or have difficulty sleeping at night.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the experienced New York personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Kenneth A. Wilhelm can help you better understand your legal rights and options. Please contact us TOLL FREE 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-WORK-4-YOU (1-800-967-5496). WE CAN EVEN COME TO YOU. There is no attorneys’ fee unless we recover money for you. We can also help with personal injury cases in New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, or Florida. If you have been seriously injured in any of the 50 U.S. states, please call us and we will try to help you with your case.
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Source: ABC New