There are plenty of drowsy drivers on the road each day, each taking a major risk each time they get behind the wheel. From overnight shift workers to new parents, insufficient sleep puts plenty of people at risk. And it goes without saying why encountering a drowsy driver is risky.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2017, driving drowsy contributed to at least 91,000 crashes, causing about 50,000 injuries and 800 tragic fatalities.
If you are the victim of a car accident caused by a drowsy driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Keep reading to learn more about the risks of drowsy driving and recovering the compensation you deserve.
Then, contact a personal injury attorney in Charleston, SC to get started!
What Is Drowsy Driving?
Drowsy driving is a term used to describe when a driver gets behind the wheel with inadequate sleep – or in the most severe cases, no sleep at all. This can arise from several factors, including:
- Untreated sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy
- Sleep-restrictive work, like late-night or overnight shift work
- Prescription or over-the-counter medications that cause drowsiness
- Alcohol consumption
Fatigued drivers increase the chances of a car accident, not only putting themselves at risk but other drivers sharing the road. In fact, sleepy drivers tend to have slower reaction times, make poor decisions while behind the wheel, and pay less attention.
How to Know if You Have Been Hit by a Drowsy Driver
Our personal injury attorneys near you understand that facing the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. However, the evidence left behind at the scene may play a critical role in recovering losses in your personal injury claim. After an accident, take a moment to ask yourself the following questions:
- Was the driver exhibiting reckless or odd behavior, such as swerving or driving too fast or too slow?
- Did they respond slowly at traffic lights?
- Did they fail to use turn signals or run red lights?
In addition to their behavior, take note of statements the driver made directly after the incident. Did they acknowledge they were tired or did not get enough sleep? Did they mention their work schedule or that they’ve been having issues sleeping recently?
Record the information carefully and pass it along to one of our personal injury lawyers in Charleston. We will help you to navigate the aftermath of a car accident with a drowsy driver and secure the compensation you’re entitled to.
Did You Know? Key Insights About Drowsy Driving
When it comes to drowsy driving, there is no denying its direct correlation to car wrecks or accident-related injuries. According to a recent Center for Disease Control survey, one in 25 adult drivers reported falling asleep while driving in the past 30 days.
This survey coincides with the findings of a AAA Foundation study, which found that about 24% of drivers admitted to driving while being so fatigued they could barely keep their eyes open. Despite the dangers of drowsy driving, Arkansas and New Jersey are the only states that currently have laws that directly classify drowsy driving as a punishable offense.
If you believe you have been the victim of a drowsy driving accident, contact Hoffman Law Firm to schedule a free consultation immediately.
Victim of a Drowsy Driving Car Accident? Contact Hoffman Law Firm Today.
An auto accident involving a drowsy driver can be difficult to prove without the help of an experienced attorney. Here at Hoffman Law Firm, our skilled personal injury lawyers near you will fight for your right to compensation and guide you through the legal process every step of the way.
Plus, you only pay us if we win your case.
Located in Charleston, South Carolina, we proudly advocate for accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. As locals’ trusted personal injury law firm, we have extensive experience handling a wide variety of cases. We have established a reputation for success, securing much-needed compensation for medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and more.
We have established a reputation for success, as well as great service! To meet with a member of our team, schedule your free consultation today. We are here to help!
Our personal injury law firm offers trusted legal representation right here in the Lowcountry, including these practice areas:
Car Accident
Truck Accident
Motorcycle Accident
Wrongful Death
Brain Injury
Spinal Cord Injury
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