Most Georgia residents are aware that drowsy driving is a dangerous menace to the roadways. Nevertheless, statistics show that lots of people continue to drive on very little sleep.
A major part of the problem is that drowsy driving is nearly impossible to avoid for many busy people. Some communities do not have an adequate public transit system available. However, there are some ways that a commuter can reduce the need to drive while drowsy.
The easiest way to prevent fatigue is to simply get enough sleep. According to the Centers for Disease and Control, an adult should strive for at least seven hours of rest a night. If one still feels drowsy during the day even though they are getting enough sleep, they may need to speak to a doctor. Health conditions, such as sleep apnea, can prevent a person from feeling rested.
If a person takes medication, being drowsy could be a side effect. In this case, a doctor might need to adjust the medication. Finally, if a person knows a long drive is coming up, getting a full night’s sleep and taking breaks during the journey can help prevent drowsiness.
According to AAA, nearly 10% of all car accidents are caused by drowsy driving. Someone who has been hurt by a drowsy driver may want to obtain legal representation. A personal injury attorney could help the victim seek compensation for medical costs and other damages. Because it can be difficult to determine if an accident was caused by drowsy driving, the attorney could assist with obtaining evidence to strengthen the case.