Drowsy Driving: A Small Problem With Major Consequences
Drowsy driving occurs more frequently than you might realize and it can cause a great deal of damage. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are an estimated 83,000 accidents per year occur because of drowsy driving. In 2014 alone, this organization reported that there were around 856 fatalities in accidents connected to drowsy driving.
These accidents can cause property damage as well as serious injury. A severe injury may leave a victim with steep medical bills and lost wages. If you were the victim of someone else’s negligence and drowsy driving, you may be able to collect compensation through a personal injury claim.
What Constitutes Drowsy Driving?
Drowsy driving isn’t necessarily a complete and total loss of control while driving. Sometimes it manifests as slowed reaction time or poor judgment. Commercial truck drivers are especially at-risk when it comes to drowsy driving. The fatigue that may result from operating a vehicle continuously for hours on end could result in a serious accident.
Alcohol, certain prescription medications, and other drugs may also play a role in drowsy driving. Even if a driver is prescribed a medication legally, a medication that causes drowsiness could very well cause an accident.
Who Is At Fault?
The drowsy driver may be held liable for causing an accident, particularly if it’s possible to prove that this driver was at fault during the collision. You may be able to receive compensation if you were partially responsible, but this is not guaranteed. If you are concerned about where the fault lies in your own case, a personal injury lawyer DC trusts may be able to review the details of your case with you.
Types of Compensation in Personal Injury Claims
You may be able to collect two different kinds of compensation in a successful personal injury claim.
Compensatory damages are the first type. These consist of tangible losses connected to the accident and to your injuries. Compensatory damages may cover losses from missed wages, medication expenses, vehicle repairs, ongoing therapy, and other financial losses.
The second type of compensation you might receive are called punitive damages. These damages are often awarded to justify the pain and suffering of the accident victim, while also acknowledging that the liable driver caused a great deal of damage.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today
It may be in your best interest to hire a personal injury attorney if you want to pursue a personal injury case. Your attorney may be able to reach a settlement with the other party, and this could be in your benefit. Not only will this allow you to avoid a court trial, but it may allow you to receive your funds quickly and get your life back on track.
Many law firms offer free initial consultations where you may discuss the details of your case. If you’ve been the victim of another driver’s negligence, it may be time to contact your local car accident attorney today.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Cohen & Cohen, P.C. for their insight into the dangers of drowsy driving.