Sometimes, when a driver is out on the roads, drowsiness strikes. There are many dangers of fatigued driving which can include:
- Missing turns or road signs
- Difficulty keeping one’s eyes open or one’s head up
- Drifting out of one’s lane
- Consistent yawning distracting one’s attention from the road
It is important for drivers to pay attention to these and other dangers of fatigued driving and to exit the road as quickly as they safely as possible when drowsiness strikes.
Why is it so important to not drive while drowsy? Fatigued driving directly affects the ability of a driver to safely control their vehicle in any condition. The dangers of fatigued driving are not limited to the drowsy driver, but extend to all others with whom a distracted driver shares the road. According to the Kentucky State Police hundreds of accidents occur each year in Kentucky due to falling asleep, distracted driving or fatigue.
A recent study determined driving after driving after being awake for 21 hours was as incapacitating as driving under the influence of a Blood Alcohol Content of BAC of 0.08.
Sadly, despite the fact that drowsy driving is very dangerous, many drivers here in Kentucky still engage in it. The dangers of fatigued driving include a car accident or truck accident resulting in serious injuries or loss of life for any driver, their passengers and those in other vehicles.
The experienced accident and injury attorneys at Hargadon, Lenihan & Herrington, PLLC (HLH) have served injured victims and their families from their offices in Louisville since 1924. We represent personal injury and wrongful death cases which result from the dangers of fatigued driving. We understand the extensive damage to lives and property this unnecessary risk causes in Kentucky each year and encourage any driver to take regular breaks and ensure proper rest before and during any long trip.