On the road, you need to remain alert at all times, especially since the negligence of other drivers can result in an accident. Aside from drunk driving, speeding and distractions, some drivers cause accidents as a result of drowsiness. Driver fatigue is very dangerous, and it is essential to take a closer look at the scope of this problem as well as risk factors associated with drowsy driving.
Unfortunately, some drivers fail to realize that they are too tired to drive safely, placing lives in danger.
Drowsy driving accidents, injuries and deaths
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over the course of 2017, law enforcement received reports of an estimated 91,000 drowsy driving crashes. Among those involved in these accidents, almost 800 people lost their lives and 50,000 people suffered injuries, based on estimates.
However, it is important to realize that statistics on drowsy driving accidents, as well as the number of injuries and deaths they cause, are not precise. In many instances, it is difficult to pinpoint whether driver fatigue played a role in an accident, and the actual number of drowsy driving accidents, injuries and deaths are likely higher.
Other data on drowsy driving crashes
The NHTSA states that drowsy driving accidents often take place on highways and roads in rural areas. Moreover, many drowsy driving crashes only involve one person, when a driver runs off of the road. More drowsy driving accidents happen between 12 AM and 6 AM, as well as the late afternoon than other times.
If you suffered an injury in an accident due to another driver’s drowsiness, make sure you stand up for your rights.
