Fatigued Driving Resource

Below is a summary of an article that was sent to me by the law firm Chopra & Nocerino, LLP.  I have no affiliation with this law firm, but I found the safety information to be clear and relevant, so I’m including a link to the article.  

For those interested, the webpage contains the full article and links to documented resources that substantiate the information presented in the article.  

https://www.chopranocerino.com/fatigued-driving-resource/?utm_source=chatgpt.com


Fatigued Driving Resource  (Chopra & Nocerino, LLP)

 

Wake-Up Call on the Road: The Realities of Driving While Fatigued

Driving while fatigued is a serious hazard leading to thousands of crashes, injuries, and deaths each year. Many people underestimate the danger of driving when tired — but fatigue can impair reaction time, decision-making, and attention just like alcohol.

Why Fatigue Matters

In 2017, drowsy driving caused 91,000 crashes, resulting in 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths.
By 2021, fatigue-related crashes led to 684 fatalities, an 8.2% increase from 2020.

Fatigue affects:

  • Decision-making and judgment
  • Reaction time to sudden hazards
  • Focus and attention to the road

Microsleeps: The Hidden Killer

“Microsleep” is a brief sleep episode lasting up to 30 seconds, often without you realizing it.

Common causes:

  • Sleep deprivation
  • Alcohol use
  • Medications
  • Night-shift work

Even a few seconds of lost awareness can be deadly behind the wheel.

Recognizing Fatigue on the Road

Early warning signs include:

  • Yawning frequently
  • Drifting from your lane or hitting the rumble strip
  • Missing exits or road signs
  • Difficulty focusing

If you notice these symptoms, pull over safely and rest. Never rely on caffeine or loud music as long-term fixes.

Prevention Tips

  • Get at least 7 hours of quality sleep regularly.
  • Avoid alcohol and monitor your medications
  • Avoid driving during your natural sleep hours (late night/early morning).
  • Plan rest breaks every 2 hours or 100 miles.
  • Share driving duties on long trips.

Final Thoughts

Fatigued driving is preventable. By understanding the risks and knowing when to stop, you can protect yourself, your passengers, and others on the road.

Source: Chopra & Nocerino, LLP – Fatigued Driving Resource

 

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