There are state laws against texting while driving but not against driving while drowsy. Many studies prove that drowsy driving is dangerous, but in California, countless drivers take the risk every day. They face increased risks of fatal crashes and serious injuries to themselves and others.
Increased risks of truck accidents
Driving while fatigued increases the risks of causing accidents with commercial vehicles like buses, or big rigs. With tens of thousands of trucks on the roads and highways, unprepared drivers face increased risks of fatal accidents.
Similar to drunk driving
Driving while sleepy, regardless of the time of day, is just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated from alcohol or drugs. Fatigued driving reduces the driver’s reaction time and decreases the field of vision. In either situation, drivers are twice as likely to crash than if they drove normally.
Increased risks of financial and legal liabilities
Fatigued drivers are usually at fault for causing motor vehicle accidents. They have to explain the details of the crash to the police and then to the auto insurance company. Their insurance policy rates may increase as they are forced to pay for the vehicle’s damages. They may be sued in court and forced to pay for the other driver’s expenses in addition to their own medical bills, lost wages and other living expenses.
When anyone drives while fatigued, he or she is more likely to speed or drive recklessly with little self control. The act is similar to driving while intoxicated and includes the same number of dangers. Fatigued drivers are very rarely able to remain in control of their own vehicles and avoid causing serious motor vehicle accidents.
