One of the greatest hazards on roadways is drowsy driving. At some point or another we have all been tired behind the wheel. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), crashes due to drowsiness result in more than 100,000 accidents each year. That statistic may be even higher as this type of accident is under reported.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCP), the types of drivers that are at higher risk for driving drowsy are people who: work night shifts or long hours, don’t get an adequate amount of sleep, use certain medications, are commercial drivers, or people with untreated sleep disorders.
Sleep deprivation can lead to poor vision, slow reaction time, trouble staying in the lane, missed traffic signs or exits. Many drivers when experiencing sleeplessness will resort to tactics such as playing loud music, opening the window and drinking caffeine. Even though these tactics may work to a certain extent, the safest remedy is to pull over to a safe area and take a short nap.
Here are a few tips that may help prevent or reduce drowsy driving:
• Get enough sleep before driving
• If driving a long distance, take breaks
• If possible, arrange to have a travel companion so you can swap driving duties
• Never consume alcohol and avoid any medications that may cause drowsiness
• If you feel tired, pull off the road to a safe area and nap for 15-20 minutes
• Drink a good amount of water as it helps prevent dehydration that may cause drowsiness. It also requires you to regularly pull over and stretch your legs for bathroom breaks
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.