Drivers become tired for a wide variety of reasons, including excessive work hours or overnight shifts, a sleeping disorder, and even the consumption of some types of medication. Sometimes, drivers are able to operate their vehicle without causing an accident when they are tired, but they still put lives at risk by driving drowsy. Sadly, driver fatigue is responsible for many fatal accidents and crashes which cause all sorts of serious injuries in the state of Washington. As a driver, it is crucial for you to recognize the warning signs and causes of fatigue before getting into your vehicle. Regrettably, many drivers ignore this advice and drowsy driving is far too prevalent across the country.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that people in various circumstances are more likely to drive drowsy, such as those who work late shifts, drive commercial vehicles, have an untreated sleep disorder, or fail to get sufficient sleep. The CDC reports that one per 25 drivers over 18 admit to falling asleep while driving in the past 30 days, according to estimates. Clearly, this dangerous behavior is all too common on roads across the U.S. When someone is too tired to drive safely, their reaction time may be significantly affected and they may have trouble focusing on the road.
In recent years, many people have found themselves involved in a drowsy driving crash and the consequences can change lives for the worse in many ways. Victims of these wrecks deserve justice and drowsy drivers have to be held responsible.