If you have kids who will be driving to school, now is the time to have a conversation about drowsy driving. Kids who have an earlier start or longer journey are more likely to feel tired as they readjust to an academic schedule. If those students then get behind the wheel, there is a potentially greater risk of becoming involved in an accident.

It is estimated that drowsy driving may be linked to 328,000 motor vehicle accidents, 6,400 of which result in fatalities each year. Groups like the Healthy Sleep Project have launched campaigns to raise awareness of drowsy driving in an effort to prevent these accidents and save lives.

Signs of Drowsy Driving

It is important that drivers of all ages recognize the signs of drowsy driving before it is too late. Nodding off for even a second can result in losing control of a vehicle and getting into a serious accident. If you notice any of the following signs, it is better to pull over to a safe place and arrive late to work or school than to never arrive at all.

Any difficulty focusing when driving is a red flag. If you are having trouble keeping your eyes open or they feel heavy, you are not in a fit condition to drive safely. Lack of focus may include daydreaming or being able to keep your head up. Lane drifting is another common sign of drowsy driving that you should not ignore; however, there are other signs that are more subtle.

Missing exits or traffic signs – especially on a familiar route – may indicate that you are experiencing drowsy driving. Yawning does not always mean that a person is tired but repeatedly yawning should give you a clue that you haven’t had a full night’s sleep. Finally, if you are feeling restless or acting aggressively in traffic, it is time to pull over to avoid a potential accident.

If you have been involved in an accident where you suspect the other driver was drowsy at the wheel, reach out to Rowsey & Stelter, Attorneys at Law, for legal advice today.