Most people have driven drowsy at some point. You probably don’t give this much thought. You get in your car after a long shift at work or go home after a long night out without a second thought.
However, some studies state that drowsy driving is almost as dangerous as drunk driving. If you get behind the wheel while fatigued, all your faculties are hindered, which puts you at a higher risk of being involved in an accident.
Drowsiness can strike any time of day or night
Driving while sleepy can cause a crash at any time. While this is true, most drowsy driving incidents occur between the hours of 12 AM and 6 AM. This means that people working the third shift and getting off late at night or early in the morning are most at risk for a drowsy driving-related accident.
What can affect a driver’s alertness
Obviously, not sleeping for extended hours or working the third shift can result in drowsy driving. However, other factors may play a role in this too. For example, some medications people take have soporific effects. If you take any medication, you should find out if it is safe to drive while using it. While realizing you should not drive may be inconvenient, it is best to be safe and avoid a crash.
Staying safe while behind the wheel
It is important to note that avoiding getting behind the wheel while you are drowsy or tired is not just about reducing the risk of an accident. You need to be alert and avoid an accident caused by others that could result in devastating injuries. You may be entitled to compensation if you are involved in an accident with a drowsy driver. Knowing your legal rights will help you with this situation.