The time change for the spring and summer means we lose an hour of sleep each night. This can throw your sleeping schedule off, which can lead to drowsy driving on Missouri roads. Since the evenings are longer and the mornings are darker, this can affect how you feel during your commute.
If you get into an accident because of drowsy driving, a Missouri MVA attorney could provide the legal counsel you need to get through the situation and prevent drowsy driving in the future. A qualified legal professional could offer a detailed consultation to explain your rights in a drowsy driving accident.
The frequency of drowsy driving accidents
According to an AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study, around 328,000 drowsy driving accidents occur every year. This is an astounding three times the number of crashes reported by the police. These individuals often need the assistance of an MVA attorney to help them recover settlement funds for medical bills or vehicle damage. This high number of accidents also indicates that drowsy driving is a serious problem that needs to be addressed.
Tips for preventing drowsy driving
Some individuals cannot avoid driving late at night or early in the morning due to their work schedules. In these cases, it is important to get as much sleep as possible to avoid drowsiness. If you feel sleepy, pull over to the shoulder of the road so you can rest for a few minutes.
It is also helpful to drive with someone if possible. Driving alone increases the chances that you’ll get into an accident due to slow reaction time on the road. If you know you’re drowsy before you start driving, drink a caffeinated drink and take a short nap before getting on the road to maximize the effects of the caffeine. Taking these steps can lower the chances of an accident. If you are in an accident, however, you may want to contact an attorney right away for help going forward.
