We all get a little sleepy sometimes, but behind the wheel is no place for snoozing.
And while a large majority of Americans understand and recognize the danger accompanying drowsy driving, far too many are still engaging in the dangerous activity. And if sleepiness comes on while driving, many say to themselves, “I can handle this, I’ll be fine.” Yet they’re putting themselves and others in danger.
In recognition of National Drowsy Driving Prevention Week, officials with the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety have released their annual Safety Culture Index. This annual campaign provides public education about the under-reported risks of driving while drowsy and countermeasures to improve safety on the road. In this report, safe driving advocates talk with drivers across the nation to get an idea of the social climate in the U.S. And it’s clear that drivers are following the “do as I say, not as I do” motto. What that means is that drivers understand, recognize, and expect others to abide by safe driving habits, but somehow find themselves exempt.
Our New York City car accident lawyers understand that nearly 95 percent of drivers think that its completely unacceptable to operate a motor vehicle while feeling sleepy. On the other hand, about 30 percent say that they’ve done it at least once in the last month. Another 20 percent say that they do so regularly.
And it’s drivers who are between the ages of 19 and 23 who we’ve got to keep a special eye on. They are more likely than any other age group of drivers to drive while feeling drowsy. As a matter of fact, close to 33 percent admitted to doing so once in the last 30 days. About 24 percent say that they’ve done it more than once during this time.
The oldest drivers and the newly-licensed drivers don’t need much worry. They were least likely to report driving while feeling drowsy.
Some drivers may not be able to recognize drowsy driving behind the wheel. If you’re feeling irritable, having trouble keeping your eyes open or your head up, having a tough time paying attention to the road or road signs, drifting in and out of your lane or daydreaming, you should probably pull over. Loud music and open windows won’t carry you very far.
Before heading out, you should make sure that you get plenty of rest. Get a full night’s sleep before heading out. Also, avoid driving during times when your body would normally be sleeping. During your travels, make sure that you schedule in regular breaks. You never want to travel farther than 100 miles or for more than 2 hours without scheduling a break. If you feel sleepy, try consuming some caffeine. Give it about 30 minutes to kick in.
Be safe out there. Stay awake and arrive alive.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a traffic accident, contact the Law Offices of Nicholas Rose, PLLC for s free consultation. Call 1-877-313-7673.
More Blog Entries:
How Much Auto Insurance is Enough for a New Yorker, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, November 7, 2013
Early Dark Increases NYC Accident Risks, New York Injury Lawyer Blog, November 4, 2013
