Tired Drivers on the Road

There are countless campaigns warning drivers about the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs, but there is little being done to warn drivers of the dangers of driving while tired or drowsy. Accidents involving drivers who are tired or drowsy are often very similar to accidents involving drunk drivers and can cause serious injury and even death.

Tired drivers experience many of the same effects as drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They often experience:

o    Delayed reaction time

o    Difficulty focusing on the road and other cars around them

o    Impaired vision

o    Lack of concentration and ability to perform more than one task at a time

o    Aggressive and reckless driving

o    Falling asleep while operating the motor vehicle

Such symptoms often result in serious accidents and collisions on the road. It is important that drivers do not attempt to operate a motor vehicle if they have experienced serious lack of sleep or are extremely tired from their daily activities. On lengthy commutes or road trips, it is important to budget rest time into the drive to allow the driver to be well-rested and alert behind the wheel.

Before work or a long trip, it is important that drivers get a good night's sleep. If you feel drowsy behind the wheel, be sure to find a safe place to pull over and do not continue to operate the motor vehicle. Many people wrongly believe that turning up the volume on the radio, drinking caffeine, or lowering the windows in the car will make them more alert, but the only true remedy for drowsiness is genuine rest. Attempting to continue driving while drowsy may result in serious accidents that may cause injury or death.

Individuals harmed in auto accidents with drowsy drivers may be eligible for compensation. Drowsy drivers may be punished in criminal court, but injured parties may also have reason to expect compensation for their pain, suffering, and medical costs. It is important to consult an experienced legal professional if you have any questions about personal injuries suffered due to drowsy drivers on the road. For more information on personal injury and tired drivers, contact the Pennsylvania drowsy driving injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams.