Dangers of Driving While Tired

According to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 100,000 car crashes each year occur as the result of an overly-tired driver. Studies demonstrate that drivers who have stayed awake for 18 hours prior to driving mimic the driving performance of intoxicated motorists. In fact, the more sleep deprived a person is, the more their driving skills correlate with those of someone with a high blood alcohol content (BAC). To prevent confrontations with law enforcement officers and to avoid being subjected to sobriety tests and breathalyzers, avoid driving when you are drowsy or sleep-deprived.

Drowsy drivers are similar to intoxicated drivers in that they demonstrate:

• Slow reaction times: Drowsy drivers may react slowly to their surrounding environments.
• Impaired coordination: Tired drivers may not be able to retain control of the vehicle.
• Impaired judgment: An overly-tired driver may run stop signs or stoplights or may miss other warning signs or obstacles.
• Increased aggressiveness: A drowsy driver may experience road rage or may engage in speeding.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, about half of all adult drivers admit to driving a vehicle while tired. If you are overly tired and have consumed alcohol earlier in the evening, an officer may cite your drowsiness as a reason to charge you with a DUI.

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Rhode Island DUI defense attorney James Powderly has dedicated his practice to protecting the rights of Rhode Island drivers. If you have been charged with a DUI, James Powderly can help you. Contact our offices today at 401-662-9006.