It’s a scenario many drivers don’t think about — until it happens. You’re exhausted, struggling to keep your eyes open, and before you know it, you’ve drifted into another lane or off the road. But what if that moment of drowsiness leads to an accident? According to a Lyft accident lawyer, falling asleep at the wheel isn’t just dangerous — it’s considered negligence, and drivers who cause crashes due to fatigue can be held legally responsible in some states. If you are not sure how your state handles it, then it is time to contact a lawyer.
Drowsy Driving = Negligence Under The Law
Some state laws treat drowsy driving accidents just like any other form of negligent driving. If a driver falls asleep, loses control, and causes a crash, they can be found at fault. This means they (or their insurance) may be required to cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other damages for the victims.
Unlike DUIs, there’s no test to measure “fatigue levels,” but evidence like eyewitness reports, accident reconstructions, and driver statements can help prove that drowsiness played a role in the crash.
The Silent Dangers Of Fatigue Behind The Wheel
Many people don’t realize that drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as driving under the influence. Studies show that going 20+ hours without sleep affects the body like having a blood alcohol level of 0.08% — the legal limit for DUI. Reaction times slow, judgment is impaired, and the risk of an accident skyrockets.
Certain groups are at a higher risk, including night shift workers, truck drivers, parents of newborns, and people with sleep disorders. The problem? Most drowsy drivers don’t recognize they’re impaired until it’s too late as our friends at Mickey Keenan P.A. have seen all too often in the personal injury cases they have pursued.
Of course, if it can be proven they were aware of being drowsy before the accident, they can be held liable. For example, you may have seen recently a trend on social media showing people leaving long work shifts using their hair stuck in a window to keep them awake. This would work as evidence and prove they were negligent if they hit someone.
Legal Consequences For Victims Of Drowsy Driving Accidents
If you’re injured in a crash caused by a fatigued driver, you have the right to seek compensation. This can include:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, physical therapy, ongoing treatment)
- Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working
- Pain and suffering for emotional and physical distress
Since proving drowsy driving can be challenging, working with an experienced personal injury attorney can make all the difference in holding the at-fault driver accountable.
Injured By A Drowsy Driver? A Lawyer Can Help.
Drowsy driving accidents are completely preventable, yet they continue to put innocent drivers at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured due to another driver falling asleep at the wheel, you don’t have to handle the legal battle alone. Contact an attorney near you today for a consultation, and let them fight for the compensation you deserve.