5 Myths about Fatigue that Every Driver Needs to Know

We live in a fast-paced culture. We work hard, we play hard, and after it all, we get in our cars and drive. It’s no wonder, then, that fatigued drivers cause an estimated 100,000 accidents a year. The outcome of these accidents is an average 70,000 injuries and 1,500 deaths a year. As a driver, it’s important that you know all the facts about driving safely in order to protect yourself and others. Therefore, you should be aware of the following common myths about driver fatigue:

#1: I can stay awake by blasting music.

Playing loud music merely distracts us from our drowsiness momentarily. It usually doesn’t last, and may leave us at greater risk of an accident by impairing our auditory senses.

#2: Stopping to take brisk walks periodically will keep my fatigue at bay.

You may benefit momentarily from the breaks and exercise, but there’s really no cure for fatigue but getting sleep.

#3: Coffee can keep you awake when nothing else will.

Coffee can improve your wakefulness, but only temporarily. This can actually increase a driver’s danger, as it lulls us into a false sense of security, and we’re more likely to get in an accident later.

#4: I’m young and need less sleep.

Young drivers are actually statistically more likely to cause an accident due to drowsiness.

#5: Losing track of where you are while you drive is a sign that you’re distracted.

This is actually a sign of significant fatigue.

Know that when you’re tired, it’s time to pull over and get some rest somewhere safe. Unfortunately, there is always the danger that another driver will be the one who is suffering from exhaustion, and you will be the unlucky victim. If you have been the victim of a car accident caused by a drowsy driver, call the Wausau car accident lawyers of Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C. at 800-242-2874 today to learn more about how you can get the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.