Fort Lauderdale Vehicle Collision Lawyer for Victims of Fatigued Driving Accidents
Studies have shown that drowsiness causes driving impairments similar to low-level drunk driving. Drowsiness impairs drivers’ capabilities in various ways, and this means that sleepy drivers are significantly more likely to cause serious and fatal collisions. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a drowsy driving accident, you may be entitled to compensation, and you should speak with a Fort Lauderdale vehicle collision lawyer promptly.
Common Factors in Drowsy Driving Accidents
While all auto accidents are unique, research has shown that many drowsy driving accidents share common factors. For example, according to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA):
- Most drowsy driving accidents occur late at night or early in the morning
- Most drowsy driving accidents occur on highways and rural roads where drivers do not have to frequently stop or turn
- Most drowsy driving accidents tend to be serious, as drowsy drivers typically do not attempt to avoid impending collisions
Additionally, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that drivers under the age of 25 account for “an estimated 50% or more of drowsy driving crashes.” However, the NSC also notes that drowsy driving is an issue among all age groups. While working late is a common factor, certain health conditions, taking certain medications, going out partying, and simply not getting enough sleep are all common causes of drowsy driving accidents as well.
Signs That a Driver is Drowsy Behind the Wheel Can Help Prove Fault
In many cases, it is not possible to spot a drowsy driver until it is too late. If a drowsy driver comes up behind you or runs a red light, there may be nothing you can do to avoid a collision. But, when investigating the accident, witnesses or video footage may be able to confirm that the driver exhibited signs of sleep driving such as:
- Having their head down instead of looking at the road
- Drifting across lanes of traffic
- Braking abruptly for no apparent reason
- Failing to maintain a consistent speed
- Not doing anything to attempt to avoid the collision
Other Evidence of Fatigued Driving Your Lawyer Will Pursue
In addition to witness testimony and video footage, there are various other types of evidence a lawyer may be able to collect to prove that the driver who hit you or your loved one was drowsy. For example, skid marks at the scene may indicate that the drowsy driver did not brake before the crash.
The driver’s cell phone or GPS data could show that he or she had been driving for an extended period, or the driver’s employment records could show that he or she had just gotten off of a 12-hour shift. Credit card statements, receipts, prescriptions, and other documents could be relevant as well. When seeking compensation for a serious or fatal accident, it is important to leave no stone unturned, and you will want to hire a Fort Lauderdale collision lawyer to conduct an investigation as soon as possible.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Drowsy Driving Attorney About Accident
If you would like to speak with a collision lawyer about filing a claim for a drowsy driving accident in Fort Lauderdale, we encourage you to get in touch. Call 855-999-5297 or contact us online to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.