According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, sleep deprived and tired drivers are involved in an estimated 100,000 accidents a year. These sleep deprivation-induced auto accidents, which are preventable, result in an estimated 71,000 injures. Tragically, there are more 1,550 people who are killed on United States highways each year as a result of drowsy drivers and distractedness brought on by sleep deprivation.
The National Sleep Foundation states that on an annual basis, an estimated 60 percent of drivers have driven while they were drowsy. In addition to these startling statistics, an astonishing 20 percent--or an estimated 32 million people--actually admit to having fallen asleep behind the wheel. These sleep deprived or fatigued drivers are causing nearly 4 percent of the deadly crashes that occur each year nationwide.
Most times the actions of these killer drivers are not premeditated but are simply the actions of drivers who overestimate their biological limitations. The solution is simple. Most people need six to eight hours sleep every night and will not be rested driving if they don't get that requisite amount of sleep. Opening up the window and listening to a radio will never be a reasonable substitute for a good nights sleep.
Oftentimes the inexperience of youth or the use of legal and illegal drugs increases the dangers of driving while drowsy. Studies show that these factors are often a competent contributing cause in many of the sleep related motor vehicle fatalities. Yet even without these factors, a drowsy driver can injure and, in serious cases, kill other motorists.
If you or a loved one have been injured or have experienced a death in the family caused by a sleepy driver contact the skilled personal injury attorneys in your area. Experienced personal injury and car accident attorneys will work hard to provide you with knowledgeable answers to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you are facing complex legal issues, the advice of
car and trucking accident attorneys, a
motorcycle injury accident lawyer, and
personal injury lawyers in New York City is critical. An experienced lawyer can evaluate your case and help you determine the best way to proceed with legal action.