It is never good to drive while feeling drowsy. The danger is very real and with the alarming amount of crashes that is from drivers that have drifted behind the wheel, there are just too many people driving when they are tired. A contributing factor to nearly 17% of recorded fatal crashes, is a contributing factor to nearly 17% of recorded fatal crashes in fact. While driving on the roads, these statistics reflect that drivers are not taking the proper steps and care to ensure they are alert and awake. With this in mind, we at Citywide Towing would like to elaborate on the dangers of driving while fatigued.

Drowsy Driving VS Drunk Driving Statistics

More people drive tired than drunk! Even for just a split second, you are not alone if you are guilty of drifting behind the wheel. However, few are lucky enough to escape without serious consequences. With a devastatingly high number involving deaths, there are more than 100,000 accidents attributed to driving while fatigued every year. The accidents that involve driving while fatigued, according to some analysts, outnumber the accidents involved with drunk drivers. With this tragic statistic, more people should take alternatives to driving while tired just as much as people should be while intoxicated.

Risks of Feeling Drowsy While Driving

There is an influx of risk for some over others when driving fatigued. For example, those that are suffering from untreated sleeping disorders are more likely to drift out while driving. Also, those that are diagnosed with sleep apnea will have side effects of daytime sleepiness. People that work both day and night shifts will develop unnatural sleep patterns that causes them to be more tired during the waking hours. Additionally, there are quite a few OTC and prescription medications that can cause drowsiness as a side effect. Recognizing any lifestyles that can contribute to your risk of driving tired can be evaluated to help make proper adjustments to avoid the higher risks.

Drowsy Driving Prevention

Crucial to avoiding driving while fatigued is prevention. Those that are commonly involved in the sleep related accidents are drivers that set out too early or too late. Driving tired for senior’s peak time is mid-afternoon. These practices should be avoided where applicable. Should you notice fatigue setting in, turn the radio up and roll down the windows. If you are taking a road trip and the tiredness is getting difficult to overcome, pull over and take a cat nap or call for a tow to the nearest lodging accommodations. No one wants to put themselves or others at risk. If you find you are too tired, don’t be another statistic and find another alternative. Delaying the road trip until you are more rested, pulling over for nap, or a tow can prevent serious injury or death. Driving tired is more problematic than many people think, not only do you risk dozing off behind the wheel, but the reaction time is significantly slower and problem solving takes more time; making you vulnerable to accidents.

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In the event you find you need a tow in the Greater Dallas, TX area, or even roadside assistance, call Citywide Towing today!