Is Drowsy Driving as Bad as Drunk Driving? 

Is Drowsy Driving as Bad as Drunk Driving? 

Imagine this scenario: Someone’s been working all day, juggling meetings, deadlines, and projects. It’s finally time to leave the office and head home for the night. But as they get behind their car’s wheel, they realize they’re exhausted – so tired that they can barely keep their eyes open. But they have no choice; they have to get home somehow. So they start their car and begin the long drive home.

This situation is, unfortunately, all too common. What people may not realize is that driving half asleep is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. In fact, drowsy driving caused approximately 91,000 motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. in 2017 alone. SAM LAW OFFICE, LLC is dedicated to shedding light on the issue of drowsy driving so victims are educated about their rights in the unfortunate event of a drowsy driving incident.

Understanding Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving, the operation of a vehicle while tired or sleepy, is often caused by inadequate sleep, long work hours, or untreated sleep disorders. It can also be caused by the use of sedatives, antihistamines, and other medications that cause drowsiness. Drowsy driving affects reaction time, decision-making abilities, and overall alertness – all essential skills for safe driving.

The Similarities Between Drowsy and Drunk Driving

While it may seem like an overstatement to compare drowsy driving to drunk driving, the two have more similarities than one might think. Both conditions can impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely, leading to severe consequences.

In fact, studies have shown that being awake for 17 hours straight has similar effects as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%, which is just under the legal limit in most states. And being awake for 24 hours straight has effects similar to a BAC of 0.10%, well above the legal limit.

Repercussions of Drowsy Driving

While laws vary by state, drunk driving is illegal nationwide, and penalties can include hefty fines, license suspension, and even jail time. On the other hand, laws surrounding drowsy driving are not as straightforward. The challenge lies in objectively measuring fatigue, making it difficult to establish clear-cut regulations. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that drowsy driving can have serious consequences. If a fatal auto accident is caused by drowsy driving, charges such as vehicular manslaughter can be filed.

Know Your Rights: Choose SAM LAW 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a drowsy driving incident, it’s crucial to understand your rights. You are entitled to fair compensation for the physical and emotional damages caused by someone else’s negligence.

At SAM LAW OFFICE, LLC, we are committed to advocating for victims of drowsy driving and holding those responsible accountable for their actions. We have extensive experience handling vehicular accident cases and can provide you with legal guidance and support. Don’t wait – contact us today for a free consultation. Together, we can work towards preventing these preventable accidents. Let’s keep our roads safe for everyone.