WHY IS FATIGUED DRIVING DANGEROUS?

Posted on Wednesday, November 23rd, 2016 at 2:07 am    

Fatigued driving, also referred to as drowsy driving, has become a major concern in the United States. A poll conducted by the National Sleep Foundation revealed that more than a third of Americans have fallen asleep while driving. In addition, 60 percent of the respondents admit they operated a motor vehicle while drowsy during the past year.

According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), about 100,000 traffic accidents in the United States each year involve fatigued driving. These fatigued driving accidents result in roughly 71,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths. The annual cost of these accidents is estimated to be $12.5 billion.

Because of the increase rate of fatigued driving, the NHTSA as added fatigued driving to its list of safety improvements for 2016. Driving while drowsy or fatigued is a dangerous form of distracted driving. Consider how difficult it is to remain awake and alert when you are tired. Add the rocking and movement of a vehicle to the mix and remaining alert and awake becomes nearly impossible when you are fatigued.

You can control other distractions by turning off your cell phone and refraining from doing other tasks while driving. However, you may not be able to control your ability to stay awake if you are fatigued.

What Causes Fatigued Driving?

The causes of fatigued driving are as varied as the causes of motor vehicle accidents. Fatigue is often the result of a lack of sleep or poor quality of sleep. If you do not get sufficient sleep, you may be susceptible to fatigued driving. In addition, driving after extreme physical exertion without rest can result in fatigued driving.

Some medical conditions can result in fatigued or drowsy driving. People who do not exercise can often experience fatigue. Also, undiagnosed or untreated medical conditions, such as sleep apnea, may cause fatigue. In addition, certain medications, including over-the-counter medicines, can make a person drowsy. All of the above causes can severely impair a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.

The Dangers Of Fatigued Driving

The most dangerous result of fatigued driving is a motor vehicle accident. Driving while you are tired or sleepy can result in you dozing off and losing control of your vehicle. You are putting yourself and all others in danger if you drive while drowsy or tired. Even if you do not doze off, your ability to respond to situations can be severely impaired when you are tired. Judgment ca also be impaired whenever you are drowsy or fatigued. Some studies show that fatigued driving can have the same dangers as drunk driving.

To avoid fatigued driving accidents, you can:

  • Seek treatment for sleep disorders
  • Try to keep the same sleep schedule each night
  • Create a comfortable environment to encourage restorative sleep
  • Limit naps during the daytime
  • Increase your exercise or activity levels
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol with a few hours of bed
  • Manage stress to avoid disruptions in sleep
  • Pay close attention to the side effects of medications

What Should You Do If You Are Injured In A Fatigued Driving Accident?

With many people having busy schedules and hectic lifestyles, the risk of drowsy driving accidents will likely continue to be a real concern in Sacramento and throughout the country. You can take steps to prevent fatigued driving; however, you cannot control what other drivers choose to do. You can only take steps to protect your legal rights in the event of a fatigued or drowsy driving accident.

If you are injured by a fatigued driver, seek medical attention then call a Sacramento accident attorney immediately. Our attorneys know how to handle cases involving fatigued drivers. Call the Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 to schedule a free legal consultation with an experienced Sacramento car accident attorney.

Client Testimonials

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.

Dawniel Ewing Testimonial
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I have nothing but great things to say about this firm. They have been extremely helpful and professional when dealing with my case. Anytime I needed anything or wanted to be updated they responded immediately. They made me feel like they cared. Highly recommend them!

Michael T. Testimonial
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I sat down and met with Jelena Tiemann about my vehicle accident.I presented all of my documentation to her in which she gave me her assessment.Although the Tiemann Law Firm wont be representing me because my settlement offer was pretty good she was very clear,forward and professional about what she felt could and couldn't be done.I recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a helping hand at fighting a case where you don't have to worry about the outcome not going in your favor. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees.

Herb T. Testimonial
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The Tiemanns were referred to me by a friend and I am exceptionally happy with the service I received. I had never been in an accident before. I had no idea what to do. Jelena verbally explained how everything would work to me, and she and Peter handled everything. I didn't have to lift a finger once. They went above and beyond for me and I am extremely grateful. I pray I won't ever need this type of assistance again, but I will definitely be referring them to friends and family.

Jennifer T. Testimonial
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I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

S.B. Testimonial
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Star Fire Testimonial
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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

Jereme S. Testimonial
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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Maye Ly Testimonial
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Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
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Lendzey Garcia
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