Driving while drowsy is something that is incredibly dangerous, yet something that Georgia drivers do all the time. The problem of driving drowsy has become so prevalent, in fact, that it has drawn the attention of the Center for Disease Control. The CDC issued a statement warning the public against it.
Some may think that it is safe to drive while fatigued as long as they do not literally fall asleep at the wheel, but there are other many dangers associated with this behavior that drivers do not consider. According to experts, sleepy drivers are more likely to:
- Make poor decisions.
- React slowly.
- Pay less attention.
Drowsy Driving is a Rising Problem
The unholy trinity mentioned above leads to deadly consequences on the road. In the US, drowsy driving accidents accounted for nearly 10% of all auto-accidents. These disturbing statistics ring true in Georgia, where drowsy driving accidents and deaths are unfortunately an increasing problem. In April of 2018, a 19-year-old was killed by a drowsy driver in Hall County. The sleepy driver, also very young at 21, was charged with vehicular homicide as well as other moving violations.
Changing Laws
Such grisly and senseless accidents have led advocates to push the Georgia legislature to pass laws making the sentencing for driving while drowsy on par with drunk driving. There is currently no law on the Georgia books making “the act” of driving while drowsy illegal. So far, the only penalties for drowsy driving result from any accidents caused. Advocates are outraged by this. They claim that the victims are killed and hurt the same way as if the driver was drunk.
Opponents of these proposed changes in the GA law claim that an initiative banning drowsy driving is basically unenforceable. They claim that there is no way to test for driver fatigue. Thus far, only six states have officially outlawed driving while drowsy: Arkansas, California, Florida, New Jersey, Texas, and Utah.
No Law Prohibiting Drowsy Driving in Georgia
Here in GA there is still no official law prohibiting driving while drowsy, but doing so puts your life and others’ lives at risk. What is the best way to protect yourself and others from this dangerous phenomenon? Do not drive while drowsy. If you are feeling sleepy while driving, then for everyone’s sake, pull over and get some rest before continuing your journey. If you are a passenger and you suspect the driver might be getting sleepy, insist that he or she does the same. These simple gestures can save lives.
Contact and Experienced Attorney
If you have been hurt by a drowsy driver, you should seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney. A knowledgeable lawyer can make sure that you put the pieces back together and maximize your compensation. At Georgia Trial Attorneys, we make that our mission.
Our specialized team is waiting to get you back on your feet. If you have been injured by a reckless driver (physically, financially, or emotionally), do not wait another day. Contact our law firm right now. For your convenience our website has a live chat option. We have professionals standing by ready to help.