If you’ve never heard of drowsy driving, you aren’t alone. Most people don’t realize how dangerous it is to get behind the wheel without getting enough sleep first.
Many people treat driving while overly exhausted as a badge of honor rather than a dangerous activity. They may not necessarily brag about driving while fatigued but will instead talk about how they fall asleep during dinner or run on caffeine.
Unfortunately, all of those people joking about running on fumes put everyone else at risk when they get behind the wheel. Why is drowsy driving such a serious concern?
Shocking numbers of people drive while tired
According to self-reported information from drivers, one in 25 drivers will have fallen asleep at the wheel at least once in the last 30 days. Obviously, a driver who loses consciousness at the wheel could cause a crash that results in a lifelong injury for someone else or even kills another person.
A drowsy driver does not need to fall asleep at the wheel to pose a risk to the public. The longer someone goes without sleep, the more impaired their decision-making becomes and the longer their reaction times become. Drowsy or fatigued drivers may behave similarly to drunk ones.
Unlike alcohol, there is no conclusive physical test to prove drowsiness. However, erratic driving or an admission of exhaustion from the person who caused the crash could help you prove what happened. Learning about some of the major causes of serious car crashes can help you better advocate for yourself after a wreck.