Why Is It Dangerous to Drive While Drowsy?

Road safety is a shared responsibility, and every driver has a role to play in making Missouri’s roads safer. Unfortunately, drowsy driving remains a leading cause of vehicular accidents across the state. Each year, countless drivers make the risky decision to get behind the wheel while fatigued, often underestimating the danger it poses to themselves and others. When a driver is drowsy, their ability to safely operate a vehicle is severely compromised, causing devastating consequences for anyone involved in an accident. At Brydon, Swearengen & England, our attorneys have witness the devastating impacts of drowsy driving. We skillfully represent accident victims in their fight for rightful compensation.

The Hidden Dangers of Driving Tired

Driving while drowsy might not seem as hazardous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, but its effects on the body and mind can be just as dangerous. Tiredness directly impacts critical functions that are vital for safe driving.

Slower Reaction Times

When fatigue sets in, the body’s ability to react quickly diminishes significantly. Reaction times slow down, meaning a driver may not respond swiftly enough to sudden changes, such as a car braking ahead or a pedestrian stepping into the road. On highways, where speed amplifies every second of delay, slower reactions caused by drowsy driving can turn a manageable situation into a catastrophic accident.

Impaired Judgment

Fatigue clouds judgment, making it harder for drivers to make sound decisions behind the wheel. For instance, tired drivers may follow too closely, fail to check blind spots or misjudge the distance of oncoming traffic when making a turn. These errors in judgment increase the likelihood of accidents and place other motorists at greater risk.

Reduced Information Processing

When the brain is tired, it struggles to process and respond to complex or unexpected stimuli. Tasks that come second nature to an alert driver, like spotting and avoiding potential hazards, become much harder for a drowsy driver. This cognitive slowdown diminishes situational awareness, turning potentially avoidable accidents into grim realities.

Why Resting Is the Only Real Solution

Many drivers try to combat fatigue with temporary fixes like drinking coffee, rolling down the windows or listening to loud music. While these methods may provide short-term relief, they are far from effective solutions. The best and safest option is to rest before getting behind the wheel. A proper amount of sleep significantly reduces the risks associated with drowsy driving and prepares drivers for the demands of the road. If rest isn’t an option, switching drivers or postponing a trip can make all the difference.

When Drowsy Driving Leads to an Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a drowsy driver, the physical, emotional and financial aftermath can be overwhelming. You face high medical bills on top of your physical pain, and lose out on wages you would have earned had you been able to work. Fortunately, seeking compensation is possible with an attorney who understands the complexities of vehicular accidents.

At Brydon, Swearengen & England, we are dedicated to helping victims of drowsy driving accidents. Our attorneys work efficiently to investigate the circumstances of your case and hold negligent parties accountable. You deserve justice, and we’re here to help you secure it.

Contact Brydon, Swearengen & England Today

Drowsy driving isn’t just a personal risk; it endangers everyone on the road. If you were injured by a drowsy driver, contact Brydon, Swearengen & England today for guidance and representation. Your safety, well-being and future matter to us: take the first step towards justice.