Drowsy Driving Prevention Week
This week is Drowsy Driving Prevention Week. Falling asleep while driving is responsible for a surprising number of serious, and often fatal, auto accidents in Maryland and throughout the United States. However, most people do not appreciate the danger that they cause by operating a motor vehicle while they are tired or drowsy.
>>LINK: http://www.drowsydriving.org/
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NTSA), sleep driving is responsible for over 100,000 accidents annually, causing 71,000 injuries and 1,550 deaths each year. The National Sleep Foundation indicates that 20% of all drivers have fallen asleep behind the wheel and 60% of all drivers acknowledge that they have operated a motor vehicle while drowsy.
A drowsy driver not only puts his own life at risk, but also endangers every one else on the road. Many people choose to roll down the window or turn up the volume on their radio instead of getting off of the road when they are having difficulty staying awake. Similar to drunk drivers, drowsy drivers are unable to promptly recognize potential dangers on the roadway and their reaction time is significantly decreased.
Many believe that stronger state laws will increase awareness about drowsy driving and help save lives. Currently, only one state has a law on the books which makes it a crime to drive while drowsy. In 2003, New Jersey passed a law which holds drivers liable for vehicular homicide if they operate a car after being awake for 24 hours. Similar laws are being considered in New York, Kentucky, Mississippi and Massachusetts.
The National Sleep Foundation is promoting Drowsy Driving Prevention Week from November 5-11 as a public awareness campaign to help educate people about the dangers of sleep driving. It is directed specifically to young drivers, with stories about victims available on the web at http://www.drowsydriving.org/.
AUTO ACCIDENT LAWYERS
Eric Saiontz is a Maryland auto accident lawyer who is a member of bar in Pennsylvania and Virginia. Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. represent victims of auto accidents throughout the mid-atlantic. To review a potential case with our accident lawyers, request a free claim evaluation.
