In the past year, it’s estimated that 20% of people in the U.S. fell asleep while driving and 1 in 25 drivers fell asleep at the wheel in the last 30 days. Driving while drowsy can cause serious car accidents even though this issue doesn’t get as much publicity as drunk driving. If you’re a Florida resident who has been a victim of drowsy driving or you want to know how to avoid driving while fatigued, here is some important information.
Drowsy driving vs. drunk driving
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shares that drowsy driving was the reason for at least 91,000 car accidents, 50,000 injuries in 795 fatalities in 2017. Unfortunately, the statistics have been similar year after year.
Drunk driving was reported to be the cause of 9,949 deadly car crashes in 2017, which accounted for nearly 30% of all fatal automobile accidents. It is fairly easy to determine whether a driver has consumed alcohol, but it can be difficult to conclude whether sleep deprivation is the cause of an accident. Most people don’t readily admit that they drive when drowsy, which is why experts believe that driving drowsy is attributed to other reasons.
How drowsiness plays a role in car accidents
According to research, the actual number of deadly car accidents due to driving while fatigued in the U.S. is likely closer to 6,000. This means drowsiness is the reason for around 21% of fatal crashes annually. The cost of drowsy driving in the U.S. is likely between $12.5 billion and $109 billion every year.
If you were injured by a drowsy driver, you may be facing mounting medical bills and other costs. A personal injury lawyer may be able to review the details of your car accident and work to get the settlement you’re entitled to.