When Ohioans drive while drowsy, they make the roads more dangerous for others. The symptoms of fatigue can interfere with a motorist’s reaction times and ability to focus.
In a study by the American Sleep Foundation, 50 percent of adults admitted to consistently driving while drowsy and 40 percent admitted to having fallen asleep behind the wheel at least once. The Governors Highway Safety Association reports that an estimated 5,000 people were killed in 2015 because of drowsy driving.
Statistics show that motorists are three times more likely to be involved in accidents when they are tired. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that an estimated 100,000 accidents that happen each year are caused by drowsy driving. Half of the crashes that are caused by drowsy driving involve drivers who are younger than 25. People can reduce their risks of drowsy driving by being sure to get enough sleep each night. Furthermore, parents can talk to their teenagers about the dangers of drowsy driving. Crash avoidance technologies may also help to reduce the risks of accidents caused by drowsiness.
The victim of a car crash caused by a drowsy driver may be able to recover compensation for their losses by filing a personal injury civil claim. However, they might want to consult with an auto accident injury compensation attorney to learn about their potential case. A lawyer may assess the details of the claim and develop a strategy. The goal will be to recover the highest amount of damages possible for the client.