You are not alone if you find yourself yawning and fighting to stay awake while driving. Drowsy driving affects millions of drivers. It often goes unrecognized, but its effects are as dangerous and as deadly as drunk driving.
It is essential to understand the risks and injuries this potentially fatal behavior may cause. Doing so may help you make wiser and safer choices on the road.
Why is drowsy driving dangerous?
Driving without sleep can severely affect you and everybody else on the road. This is because your body may react differently when running low on sleep. Your reaction time and reflexes may be slower. It may also affect or impair your judgment. Your ability to focus could also diminish.
All of the above can be dangerous when you are driving. It may cause you to:
- Miss traffic signs or exits
- Brake or accelerate suddenly
- Drift out of your lane
- Fall asleep
These lapses in attention and control may result in devastating collisions, including head-on crashes, rear-end accidents, and runs off the road.
What injuries can result from drowsy driving accidents?
When drowsy driving leads to car accidents, the consequences can be severe. Among the most common injuries include:
Whiplash
The sudden impact can cause your head to jerk violently, leading to neck and spine injuries.
Traumatic brain injuries
From concussions to severe brain damage, head injuries are a frequent and serious result of car accidents.
Broken bones
A car crash may cause fractures in different body parts, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
Internal injuries
Organ damage and internal bleeding can occur due to the intense impact of a crash.
Spinal cord injuries
These could lead to paralysis, which may dramatically alter your life.
Seeking medical attention immediately after a car accident is crucial to receiving the proper treatment. This may help prevent your condition from getting worse and causing lifelong complications.
If you suffer from injuries after a car accident caused by a drowsy driver, consider consulting an attorney. They may help you understand your rights and legal options. They can also determine if you qualify for compensation.
