Getting behind the wheel of a car is a responsibility that requires your full attention and alertness. Unfortunately, far too many people underestimate the dangers of driving while fatigued. Understanding the risks involved can shed light on the gravity of the situation.
Driving requires concentration, quick reflexes and the ability to make split-second decisions. Fatigue compromises all these abilities. Many people don’t realize that 24 hours without sleep impairs driving as much as a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.10%, above each state’s legal limit.
Microsleeps can be deadly
Microsleeps are brief episodes of sleep that can last just a few seconds, but they’re long enough to be extremely dangerous when driving. You’re unaware of your surroundings during a microsleep, even if your eyes are open. The terrifying aspect is that you might not even realize it’s happening until it’s too late.
Causes of fatigued driving
There are various causes of fatigued driving, ranging from inadequate sleep and long work hours to medical conditions like sleep apnea. Even lifestyle factors like stress and poor diet can contribute to driver fatigue.
Temporary fixes for fatigue don’t work
Many drivers resort to quick fixes like downing caffeinated beverages, turning the radio or opening the windows for fresh air. While these might provide a short burst of energy, they’re ineffective solutions for combating fatigue. The only real solution for driver fatigue is to get adequate rest.
Victims of fatigued driving crashes should get medical care right away. This effort can provide a link from the collision to the injuries and their impacts in question. Seeking compensation is likely possible if your claim is filed within California’s allowable time frame.
