A recent study released by The University of British Columbia found that the rate of car accidents increase the week after Daylight Savings time. Experts believe that the loss of one hour of sleep can impact drivers’ ability and cause traffic accidents.
According to the CDC the following drivers are more at risk for drowsy driving:
- Commercial drivers (truck drivers, bus drivers, delivery drivers, business travelers)
- Shift workers (work the night shift or long shifts- including medical personnel).
- Drivers with untreated sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
- Drivers who use sedating medications.
- ANYONE who is sleep deprived (mothers of infants, caretakers, teenagers, etc.)
All drivers should heed the warning signs of drowsiness:
- Yawning or blinking frequently.
- Difficulty remembering the past few miles driven.
- Missing your exit.
- Drifting from your lane.
- Hitting a rumble strip.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms while driving you should pull over and switch drivers if possible.
And another statistic from www.drowsydriving.org-
- A study by researchers in Australia showed that being awake for 18 hours produced an impairment equal to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .05, and .10 after 24 hours; .08 is considered legally drunk.
So, sleepy driving is as dangerous as drunk driving.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed by a drowsy driver, call Paul Thomson of The Thomson Law Firm today. The Thomson Law Firm has successfully handled many cases involving impaired drivers. Call today for your free consultation. (540) 777-4900
