Drowsy driving accidents happen in milliseconds but can bring horrible consequences that last a lifetime.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, you need comprehensive support from a law firm you can trust. Our expert auto accident attorneys believe fair compensation is your right and will work tirelessly until you receive a settlement.
What Is Drowsy Driving?
When driving around Nevada and Utah, you’re likely to see people engage in poor driving habits. Whether it’s texting while driving, weaving in and out of lanes, or going over the speed limit, this behavior is dangerous to you and other drivers on the road.
One form of risky behavior that has become more common in recent years is drowsy driving. Drowsy driving is defined as the act of operating a motor vehicle while fatigued or sleepy. According to the NHSA, approximately 91,000 police-reported crashes involved drowsy drivers, leading to an estimated 50,000 injured and almost 800 deaths.
Unfortunately, in our overworked society, many people do not realize the risks associated with driving while ill or fatigued. If you’ve found yourself a part in one of these accidents, it’s important you contact an experienced drowsy driving accident lawyer. At Valiente Mott, our team of knowledgeable Las Vegas car accident attorneys can evaluate your case and provide support –– so you can focus on recovering.
Causes of Drowsy Driving
Lack of sleep can seriously affect our health, safety, and quality of life. Although our bodies have a set sleep schedule that is designed for optimal functioning and health, this can sometimes be disrupted due to various factors such as work schedules, stress, depression, or change in routine.
In this day and age, busy schedules and an endless variety of entertainment and social media distractions can make it hard to get a good night’s sleep. But when we don’t get enough rest, our physical and mental capabilities suffer, leading to drowsiness behind the wheel. Driver reaction times, capacity to maintain attention, and awareness of hazards all worsen when driving while exhausted.
In addition, driving while fatigued will make you three times more likely to be involved in a car crash. So, whether you’re suffering from insomnia, have had a long day at work, or stayed up late watching Netflix– be cautious of the dangers of driving drowsy to prevent tragedy.
Signs That You’re Too Tired to Drive
While driving, make notes of these signs of sleepiness as an indicator that you may be too tired to continue:
- Frequent yawning
- Frequent blinking
- Heavy eyelids
- Trouble focusing on the road
- Drifting between lanes
- Missing exits
- Irritability, restlessness, and aggression
When experiencing any of these signs, pull over and give yourself time to rest and recover in order to prevent drowsy driving.
How to Avoid Driving while Drowsy
Make sleep a priority. Your health and the safety of other motorists depends on it! Plan ahead and make an effort to get as much rest as possible before an important drive. If you’re struggling to fall asleep at night, try adding a relaxing activity to your night routine, such as reading, taking a warm bath, or listening to soothing music.
If you are already on the road and feel fatigued, pull over and rest before continuing on to your destination. Call an Uber or a friend if you must really make it to a destination but are too exhausted to drive safely. Remember, the dangers of drowsy driving are numerous, so take the necessary precautions in order to protect yourself and others.
Liability in a Drowsy Driving Accident
Every state has different laws when it comes to handling auto claims, and a car accident attorney can help you navigate the confusing world of obtaining compensation for car crash injuries. Generally speaking, Nevada is an at-fault state, whereas Utah is a no-fault state. The key difference between the two is who pays for the injured party’s damages. In at-fault states, the driver who caused the accident is responsible for damages to other parties involved, and a Nevada personal injury attorney can make sure your rights are protected in these cases.
On the other hand, drivers in a no-fault state must file a claim with their own insurance, no matter who was responsible for the accident. Regardless of what system your state follows, Valiente Mott can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Justice is Just a Call Away
If you need a drowsy driving accident lawyer in Las Vegas or Salt Lake City who can help you in the aftermath of an auto accident, contact Valiente Mott today. Free consultation.
We would like to hear from you so we can provide you with a free evaluation. It’s best to always consult with an Injury Lawyer for any type of legal advice regarding your injuries.
Our Las Vegas Injury Lawyers will even come to you for a free consultation. If you have a question or you are just not sure about putting together a case, let our Las Vegas Injury Law Firm help with your concerns. No fee unless we win.
Contact us today at 702-623-2323 for a FREE CONSULTATION