Three Things To Avoid To Keep Yourself From Driving Drowsy

Whenever you are driving at your less than optimal self you are at risk of getting into a Connecticut auto accident.  Whether you’re distracted by talking on your cell phone, have shorter reaction times due to being under the influence of alcohol, or get into an accident because your mind is drifting to some other time and place, not being as alert as you should be while you’re behind the wheel can cause serious harm.

This is especially true when you are driving while drowsy.  Drowsiness is similar to being tired, but it’s not quite the same thing.  While being fatigued is one of the signs of a drowsy driver, someone who is drowsy is also less aware of the road around them and has significantly lower reaction times then a fully alert driver.  Drowsy driving is often compared to driving while under the influence of alcohol.

Often we will hear arguments around drowsy driving that, I just need to get home to get some rest, or my commute is when my commute is and I can’t change the time that I am on the road.  The problem with these arguments is that they accept drowsy driving as a necessity when it is a danger for all drivers on the road.  

The good news is that there are some things you can do to keep yourself from being considered a drowsy driver.  These three things will go a long way to keeping you and others on the road safe without driving drowsy.

1. Avoid early morning hours or late evening hours.  This is when the vast majority of accidents happen and they certainly are the times of day when most people struggle with staying awake behind the wheel.
2. Maintain a steady speed.  Whether you have a heavy foot when driving while you’re drowsy or your foot slips off the pedal and you unexpectedly slow down, a fluctuating speed can be deadly.    As important as keeping your speed steady is to avoid speeding in general.  Faster speeds lead to more deadly accidents.
3. Avoid drifting.  Many cars come with lane assist technologies that will alert you if you’re drifting out of your lane and some of these cars will actually pull you back into the center of your lane.  This can be helpful, but is not a substitute for staying alert and keeping yourself centered in your lane.

Putting yourself in a position to avoid driving while drowsy will help keep you safe and help keep others on the road safe as well.  Avoiding the dangerous behaviors above along with not getting on the road unless you are well rested will help you avoid a Connecticut auto accident.  

If you’ve been injured in an accident you may need an attorney to review your case.  Contact our office and one of our experienced attorneys will work to help protect your long-term interests.