Tired or drowsy driving is estimated to be a factor in around 20 percent of fatal crashes, leading itself to the need for an auto accident attorney in Orlando, FL, in many cases. A study from the American Automobile Association (AAA) states that drivers who do not get the recommended seven hours of sleep increase their risk of a crash exponentially. The research shows that missing one to two hours of sleep doubles a driver’s crash risk while foregoing two or three hours increases the risk of a crash by 400 percent. Furthermore, people who sleep for less than four hours in a 24 hour period are 11.5 times more likely to cause a crash.
Any auto accident attorney will agree that not getting enough sleep is extremely dangerous for drivers. AAA research clearly shows that getting less than five hours of sleep is equivalent to driving while intoxicated.
Tired drivers are more likely to be slower to react, distracted, and more prone to making dangerous decisions than well-rested drivers. This may lead to accidents and the need for an auto accident attorney. Clear signs of fatigue include an inability to keep your eyes open, frequent yawning, and drifting into the opposite lane or shoulder of the road. While there is a rumble strip on the side of the road that vibrates vehicles to alert drivers when they’ve departed from the lane markers, if you find yourself continuously hitting them, it might be time for a little shut-eye. Please understand your limits and take breaks when needed for your safety and the safety of other drivers.