Fatigued Driving Can Be Similar to Drunk Driving
Driving while fatigued is a common problem in the United States, and it’s not limited to commercial truck drivers. In fact, a recent study conducted by the Sleep Foundation found that one-third of all drivers interviewed confessed to falling asleep at the wheel at least once. Although many people assume that fatigue can be overcome by a strong cup of coffee, the science shows a jolt of caffeine might not be enough to drive safely when you’re tired. In fact, staying awake for 24 hours is equivalent to having a 0.10 blood alcohol content (BAC). In Louisiana, a 0.08 or higher BAC is enough to result in a DUI charge. When you look at it that way, driving while tired is not a mere inconvenience; it’s a danger to you and everyone else on the road.
Signs a Driver is Fatigued
It’s important to watch out for other drivers who may be fatigued and not paying attention to others on the road. Signs of a fatigued driver are similar to those you might recognize with a drunk driver. Common signs that a driver is fatigued include:
- Sudden braking for no apparent reason
- Swerving back and forth between lanes
- Drifting onto the shoulder
- Driving below the speed limit
- Any other erratic or dangerous driving
- What to Do if You Suspect a Fatigued Driver on the Road
Identifying a potentially fatigued driver is the first step, but once you’ve recognized the signs, what can you do to protect yourself?
If needed, pull over to the side of the road until the fatigued driver is well past.
If you believe the driver is acting dangerously and could potentially harm other cars on the road, call 911 to report them. It’s best to exit the road or have someone else make this call so you can focus on driving. Be prepared to provide helpful information including the make, model, and color of the car, the license plate number, and the location of the fatigued driver.
If necessary, pass the car carefully and give yourself plenty of room to maneuver your car if the fatigued driver encroaches into your lane.
Call an Experienced New Orleans, LA Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and you suspect the driver at fault was fatigued, it can be difficult to prove. A car accident is typically unexpected, and the aftermath can be difficult to handle. Medical bills and having to miss work while you recuperate can add to the stress of an already challenging situation. When you find yourself in this situation, pursuing legal remedies against the at-fault driver can feel overwhelming. The skilled car accident attorneys at Egenberg, APLC are dedicated to fighting for the rights of clients who have suffered injuries in car accidents, and we are here to help. We will work to protect your rights to fair and just compensation for your damages. Contact us today online or call us at 504-229-5700 to schedule a free initial consultation.