Many drivers will get behind the wheel when they are a little tired and think nothing of the hazard they are presenting to others on the road. Unfortunately, drowsy driving can be as destructive as drunk driving or distracted driving. As vision becomes blurry and yawning becomes near-constant, it is important to recognize the signs that you are in trouble.
Here are five signs that you might be too tired to drive safely:
- Difficulty focusing: This can reflect the driver’s mental state. They often find themselves daydreaming and it might be hard to recall the last few miles driven.
- Perceptive difficulties: This can reflect the driver’s deteriorating senses. From blurred vision to vision occluded by constant yawning, drowsy drivers will likely find it challenging to accurately perceive their surroundings.
- Physical difficulties: This can reflect the driver’s physical changes the more tired they become. Yawning can force an individual to close his or her eyes. Additionally, yawning will cause the eyes to tear up making it difficult to see. The head can begin to droop with fatigue making it difficult to stay focused on the road.
- Loss of control: Drivers might find themselves having trouble maintaining a safe speed or staying in the center of their own lane. Drifting from side to side in the lane or tailgating the car in front of them can result in collisions.
- Emotional changes: Fatigue can often impact a driver’s mental state, leaving him or her feeling restless and irritable. These could lead to snap decisions and poor driving choices.
Accidents caused by drowsy drivers can lead to severe injuries such as brain damage, spinal cord damage, paralysis or amputation. If you were injured in an accident, it is wise to explore your legal options.