All motor vehicle drivers have a responsibility not to drive in a physical or emotional state that could compromise the ability to safely control the motor vehicle. This includes while experiencing drowsiness or fatigue. Underestimating the risks caused by drowsy driving contributes to thousands of car accidents every year. Let our San Antonio car accident attorney guide you through a drowsy driving accident case.

How Common Are Drowsy Driving Car Accidents?

Drowsy drivers present a significant danger to all other road users in Texas. According to crash data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 700 people died in drowsy-driving related car accidents in 2022. In addition, tens of thousands of victims were injured in accidents caused by fatigue. It is believed that statistics underestimate the true number of drowsy driving collisions, however, as it is difficult for investigators to assign this as a cause when the at-fault driver does not survive.

Drowsy Driving Is Similar to Drunk Driving in How It Affects Drivers

Though the dangers of drunk driving are well known, the similar risks associated with drowsy driving tend to be overlooked. According to studies, drowsiness affects a driver in much the same way as alcohol impairment. Sleepiness, fatigue and exhaustion can affect a driver in many dangerous ways, causing:

  • Reduced reflexes
  • Slowed reaction times
  • Distraction and inattention
  • Impaired decision-making
  • Risky or reckless behaviors
  • Missed road signs and signals
  • Blurred vision
  • Lack of coordination
  • Microsleeps (briefly falling asleep)

Drowsy driving is a serious road safety problem that can be as deadly as drunk driving. A delay of just one second due to drowsiness could result in a car accident that otherwise would have been prevented.

How to Avoid Driving Drowsy

Driving while tired is a preventable crash risk. You should never put yourself and others at risk by deciding to drive while suffering from drowsiness or fatigue. If you feel sleepy, pull over immediately and get rest. There is no substitute for sleep, including caffeine. Take these steps to prevent drowsy driving:

  • Get a good night’s sleep before a drive. Make sure you are well-rested before embarking on a long road trip or overnight drive.
  • Stick to a regular sleep schedule that gives you seven to nine hours of sleep per night. Treat any sleep disorders that could interrupt your sleep pattern, such as sleep apnea.
  • Travel with someone, if possible. Chatting with a passenger can keep you awake and alert. You can also take turns driving.
  • Recognize the warning signs. Signs of drowsiness can include frequent yawning, constant blinking, trouble keeping your eyes open, feeling irritable and drifting out of your lane.

Know when it is time to pull over and sleep. Take a nap in a safe location until you feel alert enough to drive again. If you are too tired to drive, consider getting a hotel for the night or using alternative transportation, such as rideshare services. Always put safety first.

What to Do After a Drowsy Driving Accident

Fatigue can significantly alter a driver’s ability to control a car in a reasonable and prudent manner. If a drowsy driver crashes into you in San Antonio, his or her car insurance company may be financially responsible for your medical bills and property repairs. However, it will be up to you to prove fault. Contact a personal injury lawyer in San Antonio as soon as possible to help you with your claim. An attorney can investigate and search for evidence of drowsy driving, such as eyewitness statements, surveillance footage of the crash and expert testimony. Your attorney will build a strong claim to collect as much financial compensation for your losses as possible.