Driving while fatigued is a silent but dangerous issue on the roads. While it may not get as much attention as drunk driving or texting while driving, it is just as deadly. 

If you need help, reach out for a free lawyer consult before you take further steps. Learn about the ramifications of driving fatigue and your liability below.

What Happens When You Drive Fatigued?

Fatigue dramatically affects your ability to react quickly and make good decisions on the road. Studies show that driving while drowsy can slow reaction times, impair judgment, and even cause drivers to fall asleep behind the wheel. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that each year, drowsy driving results in over 1,500 deaths in the U.S.

The effects of fatigue can be compared to those of alcohol impairment. Research indicates that being awake for 18 hours is like having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%. After 24 hours without sleep, it’s similar to a BAC of 0.10%—that is above the legal limit!

Fatigue and Liability in Personal Injury Claims

When an accident occurs because of a fatigued driver, establishing liability is key in a personal injury claim. 

Fatigue may not be as obvious as other causes like speeding or running a red light, but it can still be proven. Eyewitness accounts, traffic camera footage and even data from the vehicle’s onboard systems can help establish that the driver was drowsy at the time of the accident.

If you're involved in a crash caused by a fatigued driver, contact your personal injury lawyer. The lawyer will gather the necessary evidence to prove that fatigue was a contributing factor and build a strong case on your behalf. An initial free consult with your lawyer can give you the advantage of knowing how best to approach your claim.

How Fatigue Affects Commercial Truck Drivers

Fatigued driving is especially common among truck drivers who spend long hours on the road. 

Federal regulations limit the number of hours truck drivers can be on the road, but these rules are sometimes violated due to tight delivery schedules or pressure from employers. If a commercial truck driver causes an accident due to fatigue, the consequences can be devastating, resulting in multi-car pileups or severe injuries.

Truck drivers can be held liable for fatigue and the trucking company could also be at fault for encouraging unsafe practices. This leads to investigations into the driver’s logbooks, electronic driving records and employer communications to uncover whether rules were violated.

Protecting Your Rights

If you've been injured in an accident caused by a fatigued driver, the first step is to seek medical attention. A personal injury claim could help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering caused by the accident.

Consult your trusted lawyer for a free consult today and let’s minimize your claims risks.