Why Drowsy Driving Is So Dangerous

Last updated on December 30, 2025

One of the silent causes of car accidents is sleep deprivation. While there is plenty of public attention given to drunk driving, drowsy driving has many of the same characteristics as drunk driving. If you were injured in an accident caused by drowsy or fatigued driving, an experienced Boulder car accident lawyer from Daniels & Scriven, P.C., can help.

Contact us online to schedule a no-obligation consultation today.

Dangers Of Drowsy Driving

Driving while tired, fatigued or sleep-deprived can result in dangerous consequences, including:

• Slowed reaction times
• Difficulty focusing
• Poor judgment and difficulty making sound decisions
• A greater likelihood of driving in the wrong direction, failing to observe traffic signals, and engaging in other poor driving behaviors

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 91,000 car accidents occurred in one recent year due to drowsy driving. These accidents resulted in more than 50,000 injuries and approximately 900 deaths.

AAA says that drivers who slept for six to seven hours in the past 24 hours were 1.3 times more likely to crash, compared to those who slept eight or more hours the previous 24 hours. Those who slept five to six hours had a 1.9 times greater rate of crashing. Those who slept four to five hours had a 4.3 times greater crash rate. Those who slept less than four hours had an 11.5 times greater crash rate.

One in 25 drivers in the United States admits to falling asleep behind the wheel.

Sleep deprivation can result in car accidents because tired drivers simply do not have the same faculties as they would when well-rested. Sleep deprivation impairs regular driving abilities.

 Factors That Contribute To Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving can occur for many reasons, including:

• Working late at night
• Shift work that differs on a weekly basis
• Overtime work
• Alcohol use
• Partying
• Staying up late
• Sleep deprivation
• Medical issues

An experienced personal injury lawyer in Boulder can investigate your case to obtain evidence that establishes sleep deprivation was the root cause, such as their admissions to a police officer in the accident report, witness statements, or traffic camera footage.

Signs Of Drowsy Driving

To avoid getting in a drowsy driving accident, observe for these common signs and symptoms:

• The driver’s difficulty in keeping their eyes open
• Yawning
• Difficulty focusing on the road
• Dry eyes
• Difficulty maintaining the vehicle in the lane
• Missing exits or turns
• Slowed reaction times
• Irritability
• Limited attention paid to the surroundings

Compensation For Drowsy Driving Accidents

Drowsy driving can cause considerable losses that accident victims can seek compensation for, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Reduced earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Because drowsy driving can be considered reckless behavior, injured motorists may be able to seek compensation for punitive damages.

Contact Our Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation

Were you or a loved one injured in a drunk driving accident due to a drowsy driver? If so, our experienced drowsy driving accident attorneys can help you seek compensation for the injuries and to hold the negligent driver responsible for the injuries.

Call us or text us at 720-303-8591 for a free consultation.