Busy schedules and long workdays are just two of many reasons that there are so many drowsy or fatigued drivers on Texas roadways. In fact, statistics show that Texas has more drowsy drivers than any other state.
An estimated 6,000 drowsy-driving related accidents were reported nationally back in 2016, with Texas car accidents making up nearly 20% of reported drowsy driving crashes. More than 100 of those drowsy driving crashes in the state reported that year resulted in fatal injuries.
Why Does Texas Lead the Pack?
Why does Texas have so many fatigued drivers causing so many car accidents? Well, many point to the fact that Texas has such a high population. However, California has nearly 10 million more people than Texas but only accounted for 5% of drowsy driving crashes nationwide that year.
Another good question is why there are so many drowsy driving fatalities occurring in rural areas across the state. There is no real answer, but it may be partly to blame that there are so many long, open roads where drivers are not as focused as those driving in the city.
How to Prevent a Drowsy Driving Accident
Drowsy driving results in so many deadly crashes, so it is helpful to understand some ways that you can keep you and your loved ones safe while traveling on the roads:
- Do not underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep. You should always be sure to get a minimum of seven hours of sleep each night. Teenagers need to get at least eight hours.
- Keep good sleeping habits. Go to sleep and wake up at the same times each day.
- Never consume alcohol or take any medications that can cause you to be drowsy before hitting the road.
- If you have a known sleep disorder, consult your doctor about effective treatments.
- High-energy drinks and caffeine can increase your level of alertness short-term, but the best solution for fighting drowsiness is to simply get more sleep.
If you are involved in a crash and you believe that the other driver may have fallen asleep or were impaired by drowsiness, you should consult with a qualified personal injury attorney in Houston right away. Proving a case of drowsy driving can be difficult on your own, and you need Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD and Nader A. Rabie, JD at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD on your side to fight for your legal rights.
Houston Personal Injury Lawyers
The attorneys at West Loop Law and the Law Office of Nhan Nguyen, MD, JD have years of experience representing crash victims across the state. It is our goal to provide our clients with the best legal representation available. Our experienced Houston car wreck lawyers are dedicated to defending your rights in personal injury matters, in cases related to defective products, recalled drugs, child injuries, and car crashes.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact our offices immediately at 713-840-7200 to see what we can do for you.
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