Drowsy driving often receives less attention than other forms of impaired driving, but this behavior can be extremely dangerous. These accidents frequently occur without warning signs or evasive actions, leading to particularly severe crashes at high speeds.
If you have been injured by a fatigued driver, the impact on your life can be devastating. However, you have the right to hold them accountable by filing an insurance claim or lawsuit—as long as you can prove that the other motorist was drowsy. These cases can be complex, which is why you need a McAllen car accident attorney on your side to help you recover the settlement that you deserve.
Why Do People Drive While Drowsy?
Life often pushes people to drive despite dangerous levels of fatigue. Long work hours, shift work, and demanding schedules can leave drivers struggling to stay awake behind the wheel. Commercial truck drivers especially face pressure to meet delivery deadlines or complete excruciatingly long routes, sometimes sacrificing sleep to stay on schedule. Medical conditions, medications, and untreated sleep disorders also contribute to drowsy driving accidents.
The dangers increase dramatically with less sleep. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, getting only 6 to 7 hours of sleep increases crash risk by 1.3 times. With 5 to 6 hours, the risk nearly doubles at 1.9 times. At 3 to 4 hours of sleep, the risk increases by 4.3 times. Most alarmingly, drivers operating on less than 4 hours of sleep face an 11.5-times higher risk of an accident. If you were injured in a truck accident, make sure to contact a truck accident attorney in McAllen.
Signs That a Driver Is Fatigued on the Road
When encountering a potentially drowsy driver, maintain a safe distance and avoid driving alongside them. If possible, safely pass the vehicle or take an alternate route. Pull over and call 911 to report the driver to law enforcement—taking this step could prevent an accident and potentially save lives.
Watch for these signs of drowsy driving:
- Frequent drifting between lanes
- Erratic changes in speed
- Missing traffic signs or signals
- Crossing the center line
- Hitting rumble strips
- Slow reaction time
- Driving onto the shoulder
What to Do If You Are Hit by a Drowsy Driver
If you were involved in a car accident and believe that fatigued driving is the cause, you have legal options available to you. In Texas, victims of drowsy driving accidents have the right to seek compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. You can recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and even long-term care costs. However, building a strong case requires swift action.
Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Document the scene with photos and videos. Then, contact a Texas car accident lawyer. A personal injury attorney in McAllen can investigate the accident and gather evidence to prove the driver’s fatigue, building a strong case for your maximum compensation.
Get Help with Your Drowsy Driving Accident Case
Fatigued driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving, yet proving driver fatigue can be challenging. If you have been injured by a drowsy driver, you need an attorney who will protect your rights and best interests.
De La Garza Law Firm will work tirelessly to hold the negligent driver accountable and secure the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us at (956) 533-1426 to schedule your free consultation and take your first steps toward justice.
