Driver Fatigue Basics for Car Accidents

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident due to driver fatigue, contact us at Thompson Law so that we can help determine whether the other party is liable and how best to recover damages. Whether you’re at fault or the other driver, a lawyer can help you figure out what to do next in your case—and Thompson Law has attorneys who will fight for your rights.

Driver fatigue is the leading cause of car accidents, but few people take the time to familiarize themselves with it –as evidenced by how many people don’t know how they can prevent it from influencing their driving habits. Perhaps you were involved in a car accident with a fatigued driver, or perhaps you witnessed someone else’s near-miss. Regardless of the why, read on for more info about how you can protect yourself and others from driver fatigue should it ever become an issue for your passengers.

What is Driver Fatigue?

If you have ever driven when you were exhausted, then you know what it feels like. This condition occurs when a person is driving after having been awake for too many hours or by engaging in physically demanding activities. When you’re already tired and then add in a long or monotonous drive, the effect is amplified. When you’re tired and driving, it’s dangerous. Fortunately, a Thompson Law lawyer can help if you’ve been involved in an accident with someone who was fatigued behind the wheel.

What Are the Signs of Driver Fatigue?

Because driver fatigue can make you drowsy and unaware of your surroundings, it’s important to pay attention to warning signs. Fatigue can make you feel sleepy, but if you’re drifting in and out of your lane or are having trouble focusing on the road ahead—it might be a good idea to head for the nearest rest area. For many, the effects of driver fatigue can be so severe that they might forget what happened during the last few minutes or miles of their drive. The cycle of driver fatigue and its resulting effects—including making decisions to keep driving after being overtired, as well as other unsafe or unwise moves behind the wheel—can end in disaster if not addressed.

How Can I Avoid Driver Fatigue?

Getting a good amount of sleep before you hit the road will help prevent this issue. You can also avoid certain medication, since many of them can effect your driving. Eating a healthy and energizing diet can help you stay awake behind the wheel, and in extreme cases it’s okay—and legal!—to pull off the road for a power nap in certain areas. If you’re tired when driving, stop and get some sleep. If you’re too drowsy to think straight, pull over until your mind is clear again.

What Can a Lawyer Do for Me?

Driver fatigue can lead to serious car accidents, and whether you caused the accident or someone else did, it’s important to have legal representation. If you’re injured and can’t work, or if someone is suing you for something that isn’t your fault, you might need compensation to help pay medical bills. Or a good lawyer. However, in the event that someone does get hurt in this manner, it’s important to remember that you can contact a car accident lawyer at Thompson Law for more information. And be sure to get some shut eye before hitting the road!