Drowsy driving is a widespread issue in Georgia and across the U.S., and AAA says it will only be exacerbated by the end of daylight saving time. Though a driver may be happy to gain an extra hour of sleep, the disruption of one’s sleep patterns can lead to drowsiness for a day or two afterward. Drowsiness, which impairs concentration and reaction times, can be deadly in drivers.
In fact, there are an average of 6,400 fatal crashes every year in the U.S. where drowsy driving is a factor. Approximately 328,000 crashes occur each year as a result of drowsy driving. Most people are aware that drowsy driving is unsafe; 96% of drivers said so in AAA’s 2018 Traffic Safety Culture Index, yet 27% admitted to driving drowsy at least once in the 30 days prior to taking the survey.
Drivers will be faced with a second challenge after the end of daylight saving time: night driving. With the sun setting sooner, most commutes home will be in the dark. The limited visibility will make pedestrians and bicyclists especially vulnerable, but AAA has provided some safety tips for them. For one thing, pedestrians and cyclists should never jaywalk, wear headphones or go cycling without a light. Before crossing a street, they should be able to assess the speed that cars are coming.
When drowsy driving contributes to motor vehicle accidents, victims may be able to file a third-party insurance claim. Filing a personal injury claim may require legal representation, so victims may want to set up a consultation with a lawyer. A lawyer might hire third parties to determine a fair amount for a settlement and then negotiate for that amount with the auto insurance companies. Victims may prepare for litigation if a settlement cannot be agreed upon.
