When Sleep Takes a Back Seat
It seems as if there are never enough hours in the day to accomplish your big to-do list of running errands, walking the dog, helping the kids with their homework, cooking dinner, and catching up on household chores. When people deal with all of these things, in addition to working a full time job, it's no wonder that sleep takes a back seat to other issues.
When people are not getting enough sleep, they wake up tired and start the day off by going through routine motions and not paying attention to detail. If someone hasn't had enough sleep or ample amounts of coffee before they start out on their morning commute, driving to work can often lead to morning wrecks.
Many Morning Wrecks are Caused by Sleepy Drivers
Drowsy driving has been a problem for truckers, but it is also an issue that faces all those behind the wheel. When a driver isn't alert, focused on the task at hand, or paying full attention to the road because he or she is tired, then accidents can occur. When drivers are sleepy, tired, or drowsy, they respond to dangers on the road more slowly. By having slower reaction times, drivers may be involved in an accident that they could have avoided if fully awake and alert.
In addition to drowsy driving, many motorists may also suffer from sleep apnea. When drivers get poor sleep, studies have indicated their driving can be as bad as a drunk driver. The effects of sleep apnea on a driver can cause him or her to not be able to fully concentrate on the road, often leading to fatal car accidents.
Sadly, sleep apnea is a disorder that many people do not know they have, but it is treatable. If you find yourself tired all the time or not getting a good night's sleep, it is important to your health and safety, and the safety of others, for you to talk to your doctor.
If you were injured in an Atlanta auto accident by no fault of your own, you may have rights to recovery. Please call a qualified Atlanta personal injury lawyer to find out more about your rights.
