Dry Creek Road Head-On Collision Caused by Fatigue
A head-on collision occurred in Auburn recently when a driver fell asleep behind the wheel. The collision occurred between two SUVs along Dry Creek Road, close to Black Oak Road, at about 3:30 p.m. One vehicle driver sustained major injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), that included a broken leg.
Both Drivers Transported to Hospital
The driver, who said he fell asleep behind the wheel, sustained minor trauma. Both were taken to a hospital for treatment. The area around the accident was shut down for several hours while the scene was cleared and an investigation was carried out by authorities.
Reasons a Driver Would Fall Asleep Behind the Wheel of a Car
According to the National Sleep Foundation, drowsy driving is a serious issue that contributes to thousands of car accidents every year. Falling asleep while behind the wheel can have disastrous consequences, such as a head-on collision, and it’s important for all drivers to be aware of the risks associated with drowsy driving. Here are five common reasons why a driver might fall asleep while driving:
- Not getting enough sleep: The National Sleep Foundation found that adults require seven to eight hours of sleep a night in order to be well-rested, but many people do not get the recommended amount. This can put them at risk for falling asleep while behind the wheel.
- Taking medications or drinking alcohol: Certain medications, such as antihistamines or sedatives, can cause drowsiness. In addition, drinking too much alcohol before driving can make it difficult to stay awake while behind the wheel and result in a head-on collision.
- Working long hours: People who are working long shifts may be more likely to experience fatigue and fall asleep while driving due to exhaustion.
- Driving for long periods of time: Long-distance drivers who are traveling for extended periods of time may be at greater risk for drowsy driving due to their monotonous drive and lack of sleep.
- Medical conditions: People with certain medical conditions, such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea, may be more likely to fall asleep while driving. If you have one of these conditions, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the risks associated with drowsy driving.
Negligence and Personal Injury Accidents
When someone is injured by a negligent driver, such as one who falls asleep while driving and causes a head-on collision, they may be able to file a personal injury claim to recover compensation, including:
- Economic damages: This includes any out-of-pocket expenses associated with the injury, including medical bills and lost wages due to missed work.
- Non-economic damages: This type of compensation is intended to address the physical, mental and emotional pain associated with an injury or illness. These damages may include compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement and scarring.
- Loss of consortium: This type of compensation may be available to the spouse or children of an injured person for loss of companionship, support, care, and guidance.
- Wrongful death damages: When a personal injury results in death, surviving members of the victim’s family may be eligible for wrongful death damages. These types of damages can include medical expenses, burial and funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other damages.
- Loss of earning capacity: This type of compensation is awarded to individuals who have been rendered unable to work due to their injury and may be applicable in cases where a victim’s career prospects or earning potential has been diminished.
Auburn Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, an Auburn personal injury attorney. It is common for traffic accidents to cause serious injuries, but the driver at fault may be held responsible. For free and friendly legal advice if you were injured by another’s negligence, call (530) 392-9400 or (800) 404-5400. It is also possible to contact us online.
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Photo attribution: Image by Netto Figueiredo from Pixabay
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