Are You More Likely to Be in an Accident When You Are Drowsy?

It happens to everyone—you’re driving home after a long day, your eyelids feel heavy, and your car drifts out of its lane before you know it. A quick jerk of the wheel brings you back, but what if you weren’t so lucky?

Many drivers don’t realize that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Studies show that being awake for 24 hours impairs driving as much as having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.10%—higher than the legal limit in Texas.

If fatigue is a factor in an accident, victims may have legal options to recover damages through a car accident lawyer in Corpus Christi.

The Alarming Truth About Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving is a major, often overlooked factor in car crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 100,000 crashes occur annually due to driver fatigue, leading to about 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths.

However, experts believe the actual number is much higher because drowsiness isn’t as easily measured as alcohol or drugs.

Texas has one of the highest rates of fatigue-related crashes. The Texas Department of Transportation reported that in 2022 alone, over 9,600 crashes were linked to driver fatigue. The numbers highlight the dangers of nodding off behind the wheel, especially on long, monotonous highways or late-night drives through South Texas.

Texas Laws on Drowsy Driving

Unlike driving under the influence, Texas does not have a specific law that makes drowsy driving illegal. However, fatigued drivers can still be held responsible if they cause an accident. Texas law allows victims to seek compensation when another driver’s negligence leads to harm. Falling asleep at the wheel or driving while dangerously fatigued can be considered negligence, making the drowsy driver liable for damages.

Victims of drowsy driving accidents may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering by working with a Corpus Christi auto accident attorney. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if a driver is found to be more than 50% at fault, they cannot recover damages from the other party.

Proving that drowsy driving caused a crash can be complex, but an experienced attorney can use evidence such as traffic camera footage, police reports, witness testimony, and depositions (if necessary) to establish fault.

Who Is Most at Risk for a Fatigue-Related Crash?

Certain groups of drivers are at a higher risk of drowsy driving accidents:

• Shift workers and night drivers – People who work late shifts or long hours are more likely to drive while fatigued.
• Truck drivers – Despite federal regulations limiting driving hours, commercial truckers are particularly vulnerable to drowsy driving crashes.
• Young drivers: Teenagers and young adults often underestimate the dangers of fatigue, which increases the likelihood of drowsy driving accidents.
• Individuals with sleep disorders – Conditions like sleep apnea can cause excessive daytime sleepiness, increasing the risk of falling asleep at the wheel.

If a driver in one of these high-risk categories causes an accident, a car wreck law firm in Corpus Christi can help victims seek justice and financial recovery.

Signs You’re Too Tired to Drive

Recognizing the warning signs of fatigue before getting behind the wheel can prevent a serious accident. Common indicators include:

• Frequent yawning or blinking
• Drifting out of your lane
• Difficulty remembering the last few miles driven
• Missing traffic signs or exits
• Trouble keeping your head up

If you experience these symptoms, the safest choice is to pull over and rest before continuing your journey.

What to Do After a Drowsy Driving Accident

If you’ve been involved in an accident caused by a fatigued driver, taking the proper steps can strengthen your claim:

1. Call 911 – Always report an accident, even if injuries seem minor. A police report can document signs of drowsy driving.
2. Seek medical attention – Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
3. Gather evidence – Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If witnesses saw the other driver drifting or appearing drowsy, their statements could be valuable.
4. Consult an attorney – A skilled accident attorney in Corpus Christi can help build a strong case and negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation.

How an Attorney Can Help

Proving a driver was fatigued at the time of an accident can be challenging, but a Corpus Christi auto accident attorney can use various types of evidence to establish liability, including:

• Cell phone records to show late-night activity before the crash
• Work schedules proving long shifts or lack of sleep
• Expert testimony on the effects of drowsiness on reaction time
• Surveillance footage showing signs of fatigue before the collision

Victims of drowsy driving crashes deserve justice, and the right legal team can make a significant difference in the outcome of their case.

Understanding the Impact of Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving is a serious but preventable danger on Texas roads. When fatigue impairs a driver’s ability to react and make safe decisions, they can be held accountable for the harm they cause. If you or a loved one has been injured in a drowsy driving accident, a car wreck law firm in Corpus Christi can fight for the compensation you deserve. Taking legal action not only helps you recover financially but also raises awareness about the risks of driving while fatigued.