Drivers in Minneapolis have a legal obligation to operate their vehicles in a manner that is safe and minimizes the risk of injury to others. Drowsy driving is a form of driver negligence that can result in severe and deadly auto accidents. If you get into a car crash because of a drowsy or fatigued driver, you may be able to file a claim or lawsuit in pursuit of financial compensation. Contact our Minneapolis car accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
What Is Drowsy Driving?
Drowsy driving means an individual is operating a motor vehicle while experiencing a dangerous level of tiredness, drowsiness or fatigue. This may occur due to sleep deprivation or a lack of quality sleep, overnight drives, late-night partying, double shifts, long drives, medical conditions such as sleep apnea, and the use of medications that cause drowsiness.
The Risks of Drowsy Driving
Drowsy driving is an extremely dangerous driver mistake that has been compared to drunk driving in terms of how much it affects a person’s ability to drive. According to the Sleep Foundation, both conditions are considered equally dangerous, as they can affect reaction times, alertness and decision-making.
Driving while tired affects many of the senses and abilities that are needed to safely operate a motor vehicle. A drowsy driver may experience heavy or closing eyes, blurred vision, delayed reaction times, slowed reflexes, impaired judgment, and muscle weakness. Drowsy drivers may also fall asleep behind the wheel.
Car Accidents Caused By Drowsy Driving
Driving while fatigued can result in high-speed car accidents, including high-impact rear-end collisions. A driver who has fallen asleep behind the wheel may not touch the brakes prior to the time of impact, increasing the velocity of the crash.
Drowsy drivers may also cause T-bone accidents and other serious intersection collisions by failing to yield the right-of-way or running red lights. Other common drowsy driving accidents include sideswipes, lane-change accidents and head-on collisions.
Driver Fatigue in Commercial Trucking
Drowsy driving is an especially prominent problem in commercial driving, such as long-haul trucking. Commercial drivers are expected to drive long hours, typically alone. Although laws are in place requiring rest breaks after a certain number of driving hours, companies have been known to pressure and even reward drivers for exceeding these hours to meet tight deadlines.
How to Hold a Drowsy Driver Liable for a Car Accident in Minneapolis
Minnesota uses a “no-fault” system when it comes to car accident insurance claims. Under this rule, all drivers seek initial compensation from their own car insurance providers, regardless of fault for an accident. However, it may be possible to hold a drowsy driver accountable for a wreck if your injuries are serious.
If your injuries require more than $4,000 in medical care, you have a permanent injury or disfigurement, or a loved one died in the accident, the at-fault driver can be held liable or financially responsible. This means you could receive compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage from the drowsy driver’s insurance provider. Consult with a wrongful death attorney in Minneapolis for more information.
Why You Should Contact a Drowsy Driving Accident Lawyer in Minneapolis
Proving and winning a drowsy driving car accident claim can be difficult. These cases often require evidence such as the driver’s employment records or driving logs, medical history, footage of the accident, black box or digital records, witness testimony, police reports, and expert accident reconstruction.
When you reach out to a drowsy driving accident attorney in Minneapolis, he or she can collect evidence and file a claim in pursuit of fair financial compensation for you. Your lawyer will understand how to navigate Minnesota’s car accident laws to achieve the best possible results.
To speak to a knowledgeable drowsy driving car accident lawyer in Minneapolis for information about your rights, contact Goldenberg Lauricella, PLLC to request a free case evaluation.