Essential Tips from a Concerned Car Accident Lawyer
One of the major causes of fatal car accidents on our roads is fatigue. A lot of people tend to think that driver fatigue is only an issue among long-distance drivers. This is not correct. All kinds of drivers can be affected by fatigue. An important fact to note is that car drivers do not get fatigued from driving; they are normally already tired when they decide to hit the road because of factors such as long working hours, physically demanding tasks, lack of sleep, and so on.
The risks of fatigued driving are clear. You could end up causing an accident, getting life-threatening injuries or even dying if you drive while exhausted. This is why it is important for drivers to know how to reduce fatigue on the road. If you are involved in an accident with a fatigued driver, immediately contact your car accident lawyer.
How to reduce fatigue on the road:
1. Get enough rest the night before your drive:
Get at least seven or eight hours of sleep the night before your journey. Without enough sleep, you will likely still be drowsy and exhausted when you start your journey. This would increase your likelihood of causing an accident.
2. Try not to start your car trip very late in the day:
You should start your journey about an hour after waking up. This is the time when your mind is most alert. Do not get yourself involved in heavy tasks that might exhaust you in any way if you have a long journey ahead.
3. Maintain a good body posture:
Sit upright and ensure that the driver’s seat is moved forward enough to prevent your legs from fully extending. Additionally, your head should always be up and your eyes looking straight ahead. Any other posture will make you tired and exhausted in a few hours.
4. Keep the car’s environment stimulating:
You can reduce the car’s temperature and make it a bit cold if necessary. If that doesn’t work, turn the volume up, change radio stations frequently and keep away from soft slow music. This kind of stimulating environment will keep you alert. Also, do not use the vehicle’s cruise control; make yourself involved in the driving as much as possible.
5. Take frequent breaks:
Breaks are very important for long distance drives. Stop for a 20-minute break every 3 hours. This will allow you to stretch your legs and move around a bit. It will also keep you awake and keep you going for the next 3 hours of your journey before taking the next break. Moving around or stretching gets your heart to pump blood a bit faster which will help keep you awake.
6. Avoid heavy meals:
Keep away from heavy meals before hitting the road as they could make you feel sleepy afterward. Even if you are really hungry, just eat something light. It is, in fact, better to make frequent stops and eat light meals than to eat a lot of heavy foods all at once.
7. Stop at a rest stop:
If fatigue kicks in and you can’t complete the remaining part of your trip, stop at a rest stop. Take a short nap there before continuing with the rest of your trip. This is a lot better than attempting to drive to your destination in a fatigued state. Taking a quick nap is obviously way better than allowing yourself to fall asleep driving.
8. Do not drink while driving your vehicle:
Alcohol is one of the main causes of driver fatigue. Alcohol is a depressant and a single drink is enough to cause drowsiness. So, avoid alcohol if you want to be on the safe side. Besides, you should never go drunk driving in ANY scenario.
In case you or your loved one has been involved in a car accident caused by a fatigued driver, then you may be entitled to compensation for your damages, including medical bills and lost wages. Getting an experienced California car accident lawyer will greatly help you in winning your accident injury claim against the liable driver and their insurance company.
