Microsleeps and Other Problems with Fatigued Drivers

Tired drivers pose significant risks on the road. Understanding the dangers of lack of sleep can cause, recognizing situations that lead to driver fatigue, and knowing what steps to take after a collision, such as talking to a Bucks County personal injury attorney, are crucial for your safety and legal protection.
Falling Asleep, Reduced Coordination, and More
One fatigue road risk is microsleeps, which are brief, involuntary episodes of sleep. A microsleep can last from a fraction of a second to several seconds. They often occur when a person is trying to stay awake while performing monotonous tasks, such as driving. During a microsleep, a driver is essentially unconscious and unable to react to hazards, increasing the risk of a collision.
Tired drivers also often experience a reduction in their motor skills and hand-eye coordination, making it harder for them to control a vehicle, steer accurately, and apply brakes effectively. Plus, fatigue reduces a driver’s ability to process information, make decisions, and respond quickly to changing conditions. These impairments can be as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol, making it difficult to stay in the correct lane, maintain a safe following distance, and obey traffic signals.
Several factors can contribute to driver fatigue:
- Long hours on the road. Truck drivers, delivery drivers, and other professionals who spend long hours behind the wheel are particularly susceptible to fatigue. Extended periods of driving, particularly when done without adequate breaks, can lead to exhaustion and increased risk of accidents.
- Too little sleep. Many drivers fail to get the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Sleep deprivation accumulates over time, resulting in chronic fatigue that impairs driving ability. Irregular sleep schedules, such as those experienced by shift workers, can exacerbate this problem.
- High-risk travel times. Driving during late-night or early-morning hours, when the body’s natural circadian rhythm is signaling it to sleep, increases the likelihood of exhaustion. These times are known for higher rates of drowsy driving accidents.
- Sleep disorders. Conditions like sleep apnea and insomnia can lead to chronic sleep deprivation, making it difficult for drivers to stay alert. Untreated sleep disorders significantly increase the risk of fatigue-related accidents.
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a driver who fell asleep at the wheel in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, check for injuries, notify the authorities, and talk to a legal professional.
Contact a Bucks County Injury Lawyer
When damage recovery questions arise, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance from a skilled Bucks County personal injury attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and advocate for fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
Is a driver falling asleep the reason you are healing from a car crash injury? Consult with the experienced injury lawyers at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Attorneys who have secured maximum settlements for others who were struck by sleeping drivers know how to fortify your claim. Experts are available to provide you with the guidance and support you need. Call 215-968-6602 for a confidential consultation.