Were you injured in a car accident in which you think the at-fault driver was tired or fell asleep behind the wheel? If so, you need skilled legal representation from Caruso Law Offices. Our car accident lawyers from Albuquerque can investigate your case and uncover evidence of how the accident occurred to help build a solid accident claim on your behalf. We can discuss your legal rights and options during a free case review. Contact the Albuquerque personal injury lawyers at Caruso Law Offices today to get started.
What Is Drowsy Driving?
Drowsy driving occurs when a person drives a motor vehicle while they are tired or fatigued. When people have not slept enough, they can face dangerous consequences that put themselves and other motorists at risk.
Dangers of Drowsy Driving in Albuquerque
The Sleep Foundation reports that one out of 25 drivers admitted to falling asleep behind the wheel within the past month. When a driver falls asleep behind the wheel, they can drive into the path of oncoming traffic or veer into the adjoining lane, causing catastrophic accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 693 people were killed in drowsy-driving-related crashes in 2022. NHTSA data shows that approximately 91,000 car crashes and 50,000 injuries are due to drowsy driving each year. However, it also says that these numbers may be unreported because drivers are reluctant to admit they were sleepy or may have difficulty noticing these signs in themselves.
Even when a driver does not fall asleep behind the wheel, drowsiness can negatively impact a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Drowsy or fatigued drivers may suffer from the following impairments, many of which mimic those of drunk drivers:
- Delayed reaction time
- Difficulty paying attention
- Altered alertness
- Weaving back and forth
- Difficulty maintaining speed
- Keeping an appropriate distance from other motorists
- Impaired decision-making ability and judgment
- Reduced hand-eye coordination
- Reduced vigilance
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that people who get six to seven hours of sleep a night are twice as likely to be involved in a sleep-related crash as people who get eight or more hours of sleep a night. Sleeping less than five hours a night increases this likelihood by four to five times.
Who Is More Susceptible to Drowsy Driving in Albuquerque?
Certain people are more vulnerable to suffering from drowsy driving, including those who:
- Work late night shifts
- Work split shifts
- Have been driving for several hours
- Are truck drivers
- Are new parents
- Have sleep disorders, like sleep apnea
- Are young
- Consumed alcohol or took medications
If you notice that you are feeling tired while driving, pull over. Ask another person to take over or wait until you feel more energized before getting back on the road.
Fight for the Compensation You Deserve Through a Car Accident Claim in New Mexico
If you were injured in an Albuquerque drowsy driving accident, you may be dealing with painful injuries, missing time from work, and seeing medical bills pile up. Caruso Law Offices can help you seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Our experienced car accident attorneys helps protect the rights of accident victims who are injured by the negligence of others. Contact us today to get started with a free initial consultation.