February 12, 2012
/24-7PressRelease/ -- Stay Alert to Stay Alive: The Importance of Attentive Driving Habits
Most Minnesotans are aware that driving a 4,000 pound vehicle at 70 miles per hour involves inherent dangers. However, far too many of us are willing to increase these dangers by engaging in unsafe driving behavior such as speeding, texting while driving or driving while impaired.
Additionally, many drivers fail to consider how sleep-deprived driving can drastically increase the risks of an accident. In fact, CNN reported that getting less than six hours of sleep per night can affect a driver's coordination, reaction time and judgment. Further studies have indicated that being awake for 17 hours to 19 hours can have the same affects on driving ability as driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.05 percent.
Those most at risk of sleep deprived driving include truck drivers, high school and college students, as well as people who work night shifts or extended hours.
Drowsy Driver Collides With Bus in Ham Lake
According to ABC, on Dec. 20, 2011, a car crashedinto a school bus on Highway 65 after a 23-year-old man reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. The Anoka County Sherriff's Department issued a statement indicating its belief that the driver veered off the road, sending his car into the air before it collided with the bus and flipped over onto its roof.
Luckily, neither driver was injured and the three children on their way to school were unharmed.
Tips for Safer Driving
The Minnesota Department of Public Safety offers several suggestions for maintaining alertness and concentration while driving:
-Get at least six hours of sleep every night
-Plan to stop once every two hours on long trips
-Open a window to increase fresh airflow
-Do NOT rely on "stay awake" medications
-Allow another eligible driver to take over if you notice your attention drifting
Of course, safe driving habits cannot prevent every car accident from occurring, although it is every driver's responsibility to do his or her part in reducing risk on the road.
If you fall victim to a car accident and are injured, then you might be entitled to compensation. Speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss the facts of your case and your legal rights or options.
Article provided by Walsh & Gaertner, P.A.
Visit us at http://www.walsh-gaertner.com
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