Thousands of accidents occur annually throughout the country, leaving the victim and their families devastated -emotionally, financially, and physically. An accident can welcome unwanted problems and even affect the victim’s future. While there are many reasons why an accident may take place, one of the common reasons include fatigued driving.
Many drivers do not understand the consequences that follow due to fatigued driving. No matter how experienced you are, exhaustion and driving while being tired/fatigued can have severe consequences. If you get involved in a fatigued driving accident, ensure to speak to a Richardson Personal Injury Attorney who can help you in seeking compensation.
Fatigue affects your concentration.
You may make excuses that you are ‘experienced’ in driving, so you know how to drive even when in exertion. However, reports show that a drowsy brain works similarly to a drunk brain. This means your concentration power is reduced while driving. Additionally, it also slows down your reflexes, making it difficult to concentrate on the road. Furthermore, fatigue driving can also make it tricky to tackle dangerous or risky situations while driving.
Fatigued driving may end up making the driver fall asleep while driving.
One has no control over when and for how long one can control their sleep. Even if you are caffeinated or consume an energy drink, your body will give up at one point. Trying to push yourself to make it until the end of your destination while being fatigued can end up in severe consequences.
The driver may not realize when they end up sleeping, even if they do not intend to. Additionally, falling asleep while driving can cause a significant impact and put the driver and others around them at risk.
Factors contributing to fatigue driving.
Various factors contribute to why people opt for fatigue driving. However, some of the common ones include:
- Excessive mental stress or mental health conditions.
- Lack of sufficient rest.
- Poor diet.
- Lack of proper sleep.
- Traffic conditions like delays, construction zones, road designs, and more.
- Poor lighting on the road.
- Lack of proper driving experience.
- Long journeys.
How can you avoid fatigue driving?
Sometimes, drivers can succumb to the pressure of meeting deadlines. Due to this, one ends up compromising on their health. However, there are ways to avoid fatigued driving.Â
- Get sufficient sleep and rest. Getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep every day is vital to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
- Maintain a good diet.
- Avoid excessive caffeine.
- Avoid overeating before driving.
- Have a second driver if you are going on a long journey. Ensure to switch drivers every few hours.