Drivers who are operating vehicles while they’re too fatigued are hazards to everyone around them on the road. Many people don’t realize that the effects of fatigue get worse as time moves forward, and it will eventually get to the point where the effects mimic those of impaired driving.
A driver who hasn’t slept for 20 hours has effects similar to those of a person who has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08%. At 24 hours, the effects are like those of someone with a BAC of .1%.
What can lead to fatigued driving?
While lack of sleep is a primary cause of fatigued driving, there are also other causes. People who work overnight or swing shifts often have to drive during the time when the body expects sleep, which can lead to fatigued driving. People who take certain medications, such as over-the-counter allergy medicines or certain prescription drugs, may also suffer from fatigue while they drive. Medical conditions like sleep apnea are also a contributing factor.
How can drivers combat fatigued driving?
Drivers can combat fatigued driving by getting some sleep. Quick fixes, such as drinking caffeine or opening the windows to let fresh air in, don’t prevent fatigue from causing negative effects on the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle.
When fatigued drivers cause crashes, innocent victims can suffer serious injuries. These can lead to medical bills and missed wages. Those victims may opt to pursue a compensation claim to help them recover the financial damages they’re dealing with. Working with someone who’s familiar with these matters may be beneficial for these victims.