Jersey Shore Personal Injury and Employment Specialists

Is drowsy driving equivalent to drunk driving?

On Behalf of | Apr 1, 2021 | blog, Car Accidents, Drunk Driving Accidents |

Drowsy driving is extremely prevalent because many people don’t assume it’s as dangerous as driving while intoxicated in New Jersey. Unfortunately, driving when you’re fatigued slows your reaction time and can increase the risk of getting into car accidents. Studies even show that driving on five hours or less of sleep is equivalent to drunk driving.

A lack of sleep can also make it more difficult to think clearly and make decisions while spending time on the road. It can affect your judgment, coordination, and reaction time. According to sleepfoundation.org, studies show being awake for 18 hours is equivalent to a blood alcohol content of 0.05 percent.

How to avoid drowsy driving

If you want to avoid drowsy driving, it’s important to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep every night. If you plan to drive longer distances, avoid driving alone to ensure you can switch off with driving and have someone who will prevent you from falling asleep while behind the wheel. If you feel yourself becoming tired, pull over to a rest stop and get a nap to recharge and regain your energy to avoid car accidents.

You can also rely on caffeine if you need a boost of short-term energy. Consider drinking coffee or an energy drink on longer drives.

Who can you contact for legal assistance?

If you’re involved in a car accident, contact a legal professional who can assist you in pursuing legal action to obtain compensation for the damages. An attorney can help you learn more about your rights and will inform you of how to navigate the legal process. They can also assist you with other types of cases like wrongful death, distracted driving, and verbal threshold in car accidents.