As a driver, you need a great deal of focus to operate a motor vehicle safely. However, it is not uncommon even for the most experienced drivers to suffer exhaustion, especially after driving for several hours.
Studies show that the impacts of driver fatigue are similar to those of driving under influence. This means that driver fatigue is hazardous both to the exhausted driver as well as the other road users.
So who is likely to drive fatigued?
Typically these are drivers who fail to get enough sleep prior to getting behind the wheel. Commercial truck drivers who stay on the road for several hours per week are specifically vulnerable. Fatigued driving is also common among shift drivers such as those who work during the day before taking up a second job as a driver at night.
Finally, drivers who get on the road while on certain medications or while intoxicated are likely to be fatigued. The same is true of drivers who suffer from sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea.
Signs to watch out for is you suspect fatigue while on the road
Sometimes, assessing your own level of fatigue can be quite difficult. In fact, personal assessment of fatigue becomes increasingly impaired as you become more fatigued. Here are some of the warning signs you need to look out for if you suspect that fatigue is setting in:
- Difficulty focusing on the road
- Nodding or difficulty keeping your eyes open
- Wandering thoughts or daydreaming
- Drifting in and out of your lane
- Constant yawning
Driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of truck accidents. Find out how you can protect your rights and interests if you are involved in an accident that was not your fault.
