Decisions that drivers in Georgia make impact road safety every day. If drivers decide to get behind the wheel while tired, it can impact the safety of everyone. Unfortunately, some mistakenly think drowsy driving is not a risk. Today, we will discuss how dangerous it can be.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention take a look at how drowsy driving impacts road safety. It is among the most risky of distracted driving behaviors. It takes your attention from the road. Sometimes, it removes your eyes from the road and your hands from the wheel, as well. If you fall asleep, you may not be able to react to potential dangers. Not only that, but drowsy drivers who doze off often drive into other lanes or off of the road.
Another big danger unique to drowsy driving is that it is still somewhat socially acceptable. There have been campaigns against driving under the influence for decades. Even texting while driving is starting to become unacceptable. Drivers convicted of these crimes can face serious, even life-altering penalties. However, drowsy driving does not have anything similar in place. You can get into trouble for distracted driving, but it is not illegal to drive even when you feel tired. Many people take advantage of this to drive even if it is not safe to do so.
Peers will likely not discourage drowsy driving, either. In fact, some joke about it or even consider it a badge of honor. In today’s fast-paced society, that certainly is not a surprise. But it can be dangerous.