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Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is a dangerous crime; however, sleep deprivation and fatigue behind the wheel can be just as hazardous. In today’s fast-paced world, individuals commonly overwork themselves without making adequate time for rest and recovery. Being Canada’s largest personal injury law firm, Diamond and Diamond has become all too familiar with the harsh consequences of driving while tired. The firm’s Managing Partner, Sandra Zisckind, discusses the hidden dangers of driving while tired and outlines some tips to prevent fatigue-related accidents.

The Hidden Danger

According to research, fatigue can impair a person’s reaction time and decision-making skills – both pivotal aspects of safe driving. “Fatigue weakens our ability to concentrate and react quickly. When individuals get behind the wheel in a tired state, they not only jeopardize their own safety but also pose a significant risk to others on the road,” says Zisckind.

Signs of Being Tired While Driving

The Government of Ontario has outlined 8 primary signs of drowsiness while driving:

  1. Frequent yawning
  2. Difficulty keeping eyes open
  3. Difficulty remembering recent details of your trip
  4. Head tilting forward despite efforts to keep it held up
  5. Difficulty concentrating
  6. Drifting around the road
  7. Missed traffic lights, signs, or signals
  8. Drifting into the opposing lane

If you find yourself experiencing any of these warning signs, it is essential to find a safe place to pull over for a nap.

Preventing Fatigue-Related Accidents

Diamond and Diamond recommends the following tips to prevent fatigue-related accidents:

  • Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get an adequate amount of sleep before hitting the road, regardless of the distance.
  • Take Breaks: Plan regular breaks during long road trips to rest and recharge.
  • Share the Driving: If possible, share the driving responsibilities with someone else to reduce the chances of dozing off behind the wheel.
  • Avoid Driving During High-Risk Hours: Be cautious about driving during late-night or early morning hours when fatigue is more likely to set in.

Did you know that speeding contributes to 25.3% of fatal motor vehicle accidents? See more statistics…

“At Diamond and Diamond, we want to educate drivers on the dangers of driving while tired and encourage responsible decision-making. Remember, when it comes to driving tired – it’s simply not worth the risk,” says Sandra Zisckind. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, it’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer about the next steps. Contact Diamond and Diamond today at 1-800-567-HURT.

About Jeremy Diamond

Jeremy Diamond is a lawyer and member of both Ontario and Florida Bars. Jeremy practices in the area of Plaintiff personal injury litigation. Click here to learn more about Jeremy Diamond.

 

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