Many people may not realize how much fatigue can affect their driving. If people are sleepy, they may have a compromised ability to maneuver a vehicle.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that in 2019, drowsy driving resulted in the deaths of 697 people. However, fatigue may be a factor in even more collisions. Drowsy driving crashes usually involve one driver. If drivers survive these incidents, they may sustain severe injuries in the crash.
Elements involved in drowsy driving
People may be sleepy behind the wheel for many reasons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that being on the road for a long time can make people tired. If people do not get enough sleep over the course of several days or if they have been awake too long, they may start to nod off behind the wheel. Sometimes, the time of day can be a factor. If people drive early in the morning or late at night, it is more likely that they will feel tired.
If people are too tired to drive, they may start to drift out of their lane. It may take them longer to react if another car pulls in front of them or if the road conditions change. Additionally, people may fall asleep for a few seconds, a phenomenon known as “microsleeps.”
If people take precautions, they can ensure that they are always alert behind the wheel. People should usually pull over as soon as they feel sleepy. People may want to take a short nap and have some coffee. Additionally, people should make sure they have had plenty of sleep before they get on the road.