Tired truck drivers are a significant hazard to anyone who is sharing an Idaho road or highway with them. Generally speaking, people have difficulty processing information that may alert them that it’s time to slow down, make a lane change or take other actions in a timely manner. They may also be more likely to drive at excessive speeds or have trouble maintaining their lanes.
Why tired drivers speed
Tired drivers may drive at excessive speeds because they are trying to get to their destinations before they fall asleep. It’s also possible that they don’t realize how fast they are going or don’t realize the potential dangers of exceeding the speed limit. Driving too fast for road conditions may increase the risk of a motor vehicle accident as it can be harder to stop, slow down or take evasive actions. It may also increase the severity of a crash as a truck will release more energy at the point of impact.
Tired drivers may get confused
Fatigued motorists may lose their sense of direction or forget where they are because they can’t process visual or other clues properly. Therefore, they may try to make sudden lane changes or make turns without using their signaling devices. They may also forget to stop at traffic control lights or signs or take other actions that might put others in danger.
Tired driving is like drunk driving
Motorists who haven’t slept for more than 24 hours are just as impaired as drivers who have a .10% blood alcohol content. Essentially, driving while tired is like driving while over the legal limit in every state. In most cases, fatigued driving will be seen as negligent if it leads to an accident.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by a tired driver, it may be possible to file a personal injury lawsuit. Cases may also be resolved in a settlement reached outside of court. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost future earnings or other damages incurred after an accident caused by a negligent driver.