The Dangers of Drowsy Driving in Nashville, TN

Drowsy driving can be nearly as risky as driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Being tired is common for many people in and around Nashville. Yet, no matter how hard you work or play, being attentive and fully aware of your surroundings behind the wheel is imperative to protecting yourself and others. Consider some of the dangers of drowsy driving in Nashville, TN, and call an auto accident lawyer in Nashville, TN about your case for a free case evaluation.

What The Statistics Say About Drowsy Driving

Whether along Interstate 24 or 65 or near the tourism-centric area of Music Row, drowsy driving in Nashville is risky. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that, in 2023, 633 people lost their lives in drowsy driving accidents.

The Effects of Being Tired on a Driver’s Ability

Several implications arise when drivers are tired. This includes:

• Impaired judgement. You cannot make good decisions when you are tired. That often means moving around objects or knowing when to turn the car to end up in the right lane becomes harder to do.
• Less awareness. Fatigued drivers are also less likely to see changing conditions around them. That includes drifting into other lanes due to changes in the road’s path or missing key road signs that describe risks ahead.
• Microsleeping. You may not be aware of it, but when you are driving while fatigued, there are often involuntary periods of unconsciousness. They can last as short as a fraction of a second or as long as 30 seconds. During that time, it is much like driving with your eyes closed.
• Less ability to react. Drowsy drivers are also less likely to be able to react in critical situations. A ball or a child running into the street, for example, may not trigger a fast reaction to step on the brakes.
• Increased risk of forgetting where you are. If you have ever driven a path but do not remember certain stretches of that time, that could be the result of fatigue.

When a person is tired, they are more likely to cause an accident. They are less likely to slow down to avoid striking someone or when there are hazardous conditions present. They are also less likely to remember what happened.

Who Is Most At Risk of Drowsy Driving in Nashville?

In Nashville, several groups are more likely to be involved in a drowsy-driving accident. That includes:

• Drivers who are under the age of 20 or inexperienced behind the wheel
• Shift workers who work long shifts or overnight shifts
• People working rotating shifts, such as those working long shifts at various times of the day, leading to a limited ability to sleep consistently
• Those taking medications, including over-the-counter medications, may experience drowsiness.
• Commercial drivers, especially truck drivers, are on the road for numerous hours at a time

If you are hurt in an accident caused by a fatigued driver, having a skilled personal injury attorney in Nashville available to guide you in pursuing fair compensation is often beneficial. These are often complicated cases. Legal representation can prove essential.

Getting Help From a Car Accident Lawyer After a Drowsy Driving Accident in Nashville

Seek out a car accident lawyer in Nashville, TN, with experience pursuing legal actions against those who put you at risk. Drowsy driving in Nashville, TN, is a serious risk to your health and well-being. Your lawyer can help you hold those who caused your injuries accountable.