How Fatigue Increases the Risk of an Accident

In today’s fast-paced world, fatigue is a growing concern, and its impact on road safety is alarming. Driving while fatigued significantly increases the risk of accidents, sometimes with devastating consequences.

Understanding the risks and how to mitigate them is crucial for keeping Texas roads safe. Fatigue-related accidents endanger the driver and pose serious threats to others on the road.

If you are involved in an accident with a fatigued driver, our experienced attorneys can help. At Bandas Law Group, P.C., we advocate for victims, helping them recover the compensation they deserve.

The Alarming Statistics on Fatigue and Driving

Fatigue-related accidents are more common than many realize. It is estimated that 328,000 drowsy driving accidents occur across the U.S. each year, over three times the police-reported number. Of these accidents, thousands result in serious injuries, while many cause fatalities.

Unfortunately, the true number and cost of drowsy driving accidents are unknown, as it can be challenging to identify fatigue as a direct cause of a crash.

In Texas, which has vast stretches of highways and long driving distances, fatigue is particularly concerning. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports that in 2021, there were 9,199 crashes related to drowsy driving across the state. The risk is evident, especially for drivers on long road trips or those working late hours.

Why Fatigue Is So Dangerous on the Road

Fatigue has effects similar to alcohol impairment. It slows reaction times, impairs judgment, and decreases awareness. After being awake for 18 hours, your driving ability can be comparable to having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05%. After 24 hours, it mirrors a BAC of 0.10%, above Texas’s legal limit.

Drivers under these conditions are less likely to notice traffic signals, other vehicles, and hazards on the road, which significantly increases the likelihood of an accident. For those injured due to a fatigued driver, seeking the help of a Corpus Christi car accident attorney is essential in navigating the complexities of a potential claim.

Who Is Most at Risk for Fatigued Driving?

Several groups of drivers are more likely to experience fatigue, increasing the chances of causing an accident:

• Shift Workers:—People working irregular hours, especially overnight shifts, often struggle to maintain a consistent sleep schedule. Shift workers may experience higher levels of fatigue, which can lead to impaired driving.
• Long-Distance Drivers: Truck drivers, delivery drivers, and individuals embarking on long road trips are prone to fatigue, especially during nighttime driving.
• Young Drivers: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), young drivers aged 16-24 are more likely to drive drowsy. Their inexperience, combined with fatigue, can lead to serious accidents.
• Sleep-Deprived Individuals: Those who suffer from sleep disorders such as sleep apnea or insomnia are at high risk for fatigue-related accidents.

If you find yourself in an accident with a drowsy driver, it’s crucial to work with an experienced auto accident lawyer in Corpus Christi to protect your rights and secure fair compensation.

Texas Laws on Fatigued Driving

While Texas does not have specific laws addressing drowsy driving, fatigued drivers can still be held liable for accidents caused by their negligence. Under Texas negligence laws, a driver can be found at fault if their actions—or lack of attention—led to an accident that caused injury or property damage. This includes driving while fatigued.

Sometimes, an employer may also be liable for accidents caused by a fatigued employee. Federal regulations require trucking companies, for example, to ensure their drivers follow hours-of-service laws that limit how long a driver can be on the road without taking breaks. When these regulations are violated, and a tired driver causes a crash, the driver and the company may be held accountable.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a fatigued driver, contacting a Texas car crash attorney is a critical first step toward pursuing justice and financial recovery.

Preventing Fatigued Driving

Preventing accidents caused by fatigued driving starts with personal responsibility. Drivers should recognize when they are too tired to be behind the wheel and take the necessary steps to stay safe.

Here are some tips to reduce the risk of drowsy driving:

• Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. If you feel tired, consider delaying your trip or pulling over for a rest.
• Take Breaks: If driving long distances, take breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles. Step out of the car, stretch, and walk around to re-energize.
• Avoid Driving Late at Night: The risk of fatigue is higher during late-night hours. If possible, schedule trips for daytime hours when you’re more alert.
• Use a Co-Driver: On long trips, sharing driving duties with another person can help reduce fatigue.
• Recognize the Signs of Fatigue: If you’re yawning frequently, having trouble keeping your eyes open, or drifting out of your lane, it’s time to pull over.

How a Car Accident Lawyer in Corpus Christi Can Help

If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a fatigued driver, an experienced auto accident lawyer in Corpus Christi can provide invaluable assistance. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, an attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

In many cases, proving fatigue was the cause of the accident can be challenging. However, a skilled lawyer will know what signs to look for—such as witness testimony, dashcam footage, and the driver’s hours on the road—to build a strong case on your behalf.

Understanding Your Rights After an Accident

Fatigue is a serious issue on Texas roads, contributing to thousands of crashes each year. Understanding the risks and avoiding driving while fatigued can save lives. If you are in an accident caused by a drowsy driver, don’t hesitate to contact a Corpus Christi car accident attorney.

At Bandas Law Group, P.C., we take pride in representing accident victims and helping them seek justice and compensation.