Why Drivers Can be Drowsy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that drowsy driving caused 72,000 accidents that injured 44,000 Americans and killed 800 others in a recent year. But what causes drowsy driving, and how can a Beverly Hills car accident attorney help you win fair compensation for your injuries?
Common Drowsy Driving Causes
Many factors cause drowsy driving and the main culprits include:
- Untreated sleep disorders – Failing to treat sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A driver with this condition will have their breathing repeatedly stop and start, keeping them awake throughout the night and causing fatigue during the day. Millions of Americans suffer from this condition.
- Long work hours – Drivers working on long or night shifts are most likely to engage in drowsy driving. This type of shift can impact the overall sleep cycle, causing drivers to feel greater fatigue during waking hours.
- Certain medications – A driver taking some medications can have drowsiness as a side effect.
- Insufficient sleep – Insufficient sleep causes drowsy driving by gradually increasing one’s sleep debt. This debt increases a driver’s need for sleep, impairing their focus and performance behind the wheel.
Danger Signs of Drowsy Driving to Avoid
Look for and avoid these danger signs to ensure you are not engaging in drowsy driving:
- Frequent yawning.
- You can’t keep your eyes open for long.
- You have difficulties keeping your head up.
- Difficulties focusing on the road.
- You forget the last few miles you drove.
- Unusual impatience.
- You start tailgating.
- Missing road signs or driving past your turns.
- Drifting into other lanes or onto the shoulder.
Contact a Beverly Hills Car Accident Attorney Now
Has a drowsy driving accident injured you or your loved one? Don’t hesitate to contact a Beverly Hills car accident attorney from Jalilvand Law to help you seek fair compensation for your losses.
