By Pendergast Law on February 8, 2013
The Bellevue car accident lawyers at Hardwick & Pendergast, P.S., are concerned about an increasing number of collisions caused on our roadways by sleepy drivers. Recently, an 18-year-old Orting man was seriously injured in a Washington car accident after allegedly falling asleep at the wheel. According to a report by The News Tribune, the car crash occurred along state Route 162 near Orville Road. Officials say his vehicle left the eastbound lane and crashed. He has been listed in critical condition with a partially collapsed lung and multiple broken bones.
Drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving. When you are fatigued, your reactions are delayed and can be more challenging to stay focused. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 60 percent of drivers polled in 2005 admitted to feeling drowsy while driving in the past year. Over one-third of drivers interviewed actually fell asleep while driving. Estimates by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that 1,550 deaths and 71,000 injuries result from drowsy driving each year.
If you feel that it is becoming difficult to keep your eyes open when you drive, you should pull over immediately. Take a short nap or a walk before you continue onward. Make sure you get adequate rest and sleep before you start a road trip. Travel with a buddy with whom you can have a lively conversation and take turns driving. Drinking coffee can also help you stay awake on longer trip, but you should not depend on it.
If you have been involved in an accident with a drowsy driver, you can pursue financial compensation for your losses. A skilled Washington personal injury lawyer can help you determine liability for the crash and ensure that the at-fault driver is held accountable for your significant losses.