Accident Involving Drowsy Driving Near Atwater
I’m Ed Smith, an Atwater personal injury attorney. A driver and a passenger were traveling together in Atwater on the afternoon of Monday, October 16, 2017. The driver allegedly fell asleep behind the wheel and collided with a parked vehicle. Unfortunately, the passenger had to be hospitalized due to their injuries.
We extend our thoughts and wishes for a swift and full recovery to the injured passenger.
What Happened?
A 34-year-old woman was driving her red Lexus sedan along the 2100 block of First Street at approximately 3:39 pm. For unknown reasons, the woman fell asleep while driving. The Lexus struck a parked vehicle and spun around. The impact of the collision caused the passenger to be pinned inside the Lexus.
Traumatic Injuries
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene of the car accident. When they arrived, they located the damaged Lexus sedan. Medical personnel extricated the passenger and evaluated his injuries. He appeared to have suffered a leg injury and was transported to the Mercy Medical Center for treatment.
Drowsy Driving Statistics
One of the most hazardous issues on the road today is drowsy driving. Drowsy driving consists of operating a motor vehicle while fatigued or sleepy, which is usually caused by insufficient sleep. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that 72,000 collisions, 44,000 injuries and 800 fatalities were caused by drowsy driving in 2013. The drivers who are most likely to drive drowsy include the following:
- Commercial Drivers Who Drive Buses, Tow Trucks or Tractor-Trailers
- Drivers Who Use Medications with Drowsiness Side Effects
- Motorists with Untreated Sleep Disorders
- Motorists Who Do Not Get a Good Night’s Sleep
- Night Shift or Overtime Shift Workers
If you ever find yourself experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms, pull your vehicle to a safe location immediately. Try switching drivers when carpooling or driving for extended periods of time. Engaging in these safety precautions can ensure your own safety in the event of an automobile accident.
Reducing Drowsy Driving Accidents Through Technology
Advances in safety technology have been implemented in newer vehicles as an attempt to reduce injury-producing accidents caused by drowsy driving. One of the most notable vehicle safety features is the lane departure warning system. This system warns a motorist through a sound, vibration or visual warning if their vehicle is veering out of the lane. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), more than 85,000 reported car accidents and 55,000 injuries would have been prevented in 2015 if all vehicles were equipped with this system.
Atwater Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, an Atwater personal injury attorney. Car accidents involving drowsy motorists can cause devastating injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered severe injuries in a car collision, please reach out to me by calling (209) 227-1931 for free, friendly advice. You may also contact me toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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