Posted on Thursday, September 13th, 2018 at 10:38 pm    

Many of us have hectic schedules that can interfere with sleep at times. Work, school, family, and a social life can seriously cut into the time we sleep. However, some people do not acknowledge that they are too tired to drive. They still get behind the wheel of a vehicle even though they are tired and drowsy. Sadly, drowsy driving can be as dangerous as driving while impaired. A drowsy driver should be held responsible for damages caused by a drowsy driving accident.

How Deadly is Drowsy Driving?

According to the NHTSA, 736 fatal crashes and 33,000 injury crashes during 2015 involved drowsy drivers. Over a five-year period from 2011 through 2015, there were 3,662 fatal drowsy driving accidents and 160,000 drowsy driving accidents involving injuries. The CDC reports that 1 in 25 drivers report falling asleep while driving a vehicle in the past 30 days. When a driver is drowsy, the driver pays less attention to the traffic and the road ahead. Drowsiness also decreases a driver’s ability to make good decisions and slows the driver’s reaction time. Therefore, if a driver is drowsy, the risk of causing a traffic accident increases.

Drowsy Driving and Commercial Drivers

Along with shift workers, third shift workers, and driver’s with untreated sleeping disorders, commercial truck drivers are more likely to drive while drowsy. Some companies push their drivers to drive long hours to shorten the time of delivery. Truck drivers who drive while fatigued and drowsy are risking their lives and the lives of others.

The FMCSA has strict limits on the number of hours a truck driver can operate a vehicle without breaks or sleep.  The limits are designed to reduce the risk of large truck accidents.

What Should You Do If a Drowsy Driver Injures You?

Proving that a driver is drowsy may be difficult; therefore, we focus on the actions of the driver. For example, was the driver following too closely or did the driver fail to yield the right of way? By focusing on the actions of the driver that caused the crash, we can prove fault and liability, which are essential for recovering compensation for a car accident claim.

Some of the important steps that you need to take after a drowsy driving accident include:

  • Call the police to report the crash
  • Take pictures and a video of the accident scene, if possible
  • Ask for the names and contact information for any eyewitnesses
  • Seek medical attention, a delay in medical attention could make it more difficult to recover full compensation
  • Do not agree to provide written or recorded statements or sign medical or other releases for the other driver’s insurance company
  • Call a Sacramento drowsy driving accident attorney for a free consultation to discuss your legal options

Avoiding a Drowsy Driving Accident

Drinking coffee, eating, rolling the window down, or listening to loud music will not keep a drowsy driver awake. To avoid drowsy driving accidents, you should:

  • Avoid driving when taking medications that cause drowsiness.
  • Do not drive if you have not slept the recommended number of hours.
  • If you feel drowsy, pull over to a safe location to rest.
  • When traveling long distances, switch drivers periodically and take frequent breaks.
  • If you have a sleep disorder, consult a doctor for treatment.
  • For more information, visit the NHTSA’s drowsy driving webpage.

For more information, visit the NHTSA’s drowsy driving webpage.

Contact a Sacramento Drowsy Driving Accident Attorney

For a free consultation, can contact The Tiemann Law Firm by calling (916) 999-9000 or by visiting our website.

Client Testimonials

Star Fire Testimonial
Quote

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

Lendzey Garcia
Quote

I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!

Maye Ly Testimonial
Quote

I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

Jennifer Birdseye Testimonial
Quote

Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Elizabeth Ochoa Testimonial
Quote

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.