Driving requires the utmost caution, focus, and attention to detail. Drowsy driving often causes people to doze off or nod off while operating their vehicle. The lethal combination of sleepiness, fatigue, and driving has been responsible for hundreds and thousands of deaths.
If you or a loved one was injured in a drowsy driving car accident, Miami drowsy driving lawyer Prosper Shaked may be able to help. To learn more about your case in a complimentary consultation, free of charge, call Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA today at (305) 694-2676.
What is Tired Driving?
Drowsy driving is the term used to describe individuals operating a vehicle while sleepy, tired, or fatigued. The dangerous combination of driving and sleep-deprivation has been responsible for thousands of accidents throughout the nation. According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), more than 4,000 people died in drowsy driving accidents between 2011 and 2015 in the U.S. The NHTSA also reported 90,000 crashes related to drowsy driving in 2015.
The National Sleep Foundation’s (NSF) Sleep in America poll reported that more than 50% of Americans had admitted to operating a car “while feeling sleepy” and almost 40% admitted to having fallen asleep while operating a motor vehicle. The following are examples of some of the most common signs of drowsy driving:
- Difficulty focusing
- Wandering, disconnected thoughts
- Yawning
- Heavy eyelids
- Nodding off
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Drifting from your lane
Drowsy driving can lead to devastating injuries. Some of the most common injuries people can face during a car accident include head injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and other injuries. Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA have handled many car accident injury claims and it is ready to fight aggressively and strategically to obtain compensation for your losses.
Who Has the Highest Risk of Fatigued Driving?
A long day at work or a restless night can put you at risk of fatigued driving . Moreover, certain individuals are at higher risk of suffering from a drowsy driving accident. These are some of the people at higher risk of drowsy driving:
Commercial Truck Drivers
Commercial truck drivers often have to travel long distances to make their deliveries. This means long hours of constant driving. However, truckers need to follow federal regulation established by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regarding driving and rest periods. Truckers who disregard federal law and drive beyond these time limits risk experiencing fatigued driving symptoms.
People with Sleep Disorders
People with sleep disorders could cause a car accident. While some of these conditions can be treated, others can get to the point where it is difficult for a person to stay awake. For instance, people suffering from narcolepsy may find difficult to manage their sleep-wake cycles. People with sleep apnea may get insufficient sleep at night, making them more tired during the day and risking a drowsy driving accident. People who drive while suffering from these conditions can put themselves and others at risk.
Extended Shift Workers
Working double shifts can make people tired. According to the NSF, people who work excessive hours can face “frequent sleep disturbance and associated excessive sleepiness.”
Drivers Using Medication
People suffering from certain conditions may require medication that can cause sleepiness. While it is recommended to avoid taking these medications before operating a vehicle, many disregard or forget these vital instructions and drive while under the drug’s effects. Unfortunately, these dangerous practices can lead to severe car accidents.
What to Do After a Drowsy Driving Car Accident in Miami
If you are involved in a drowsy driving car accident, make sure you take the following steps.
First, you should get medical assistance. Some injuries may not present symptoms until hours after the crash, but you should get immediate treatment to avoid complications.
Next, make sure to gather as much information as possible. This includes taking detailed pictures of the scene and collecting information from the other parties such as their name, address, phone number, insurance information, etc.
Additionally, make sure you report the accident to the police. The investigating officer will evaluate the accident, interview any potential witness and the parties involved. After gathering the necessary information, the police officer will write a report. This report can be used in any further proceedings, including your insurance claim.
Finally, take notes and keep track of all your medical bills, including prescription costs, bills for surgeries, and other medical expenses. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. By doing so, you could recover compensation for all your medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Handling Drowsy Driving Accident Cases in Florida
Our law firm is dedicated to representing personal injury victims throughout the Miami area. We understand dealing with a devastating, debilitating injury can be overwhelming and complicated. However, you don’t have to face this trying time alone. Miami, Florida tired driving injury attorney Prosper Shaked can help you hold the at-fault party accountable for your injuries. Don’t wait another minute if you have been injured in a car accident. Call Prosper Shaked Accident Injury Attorneys PA today at (305) 694-2676.